This move has been seen by political and media representatives as a positive step, but will cost ratepayers about $80 to $120 for a set-top box to view digital television, and from about $400 upwards for a 15 inch digitally tuned television.

It is planned that the changeover to digital-only television will be in place before analog services are switched off in each regional broadcast license area.

Whyalla will be among the first South Australian regional cities to undergo the changes along with Port Lincoln, Port Pirie, Port Augusta and Quorn, scheduled to transition from June this year.

Broadband, communications and digital economy minister Senator Stephen Conroy said the announcement was a fantastic outcome for regional Australians, many of whom had received limited television services for many years.

"The satellite services will provide regional viewers with access to the local news currently broadcast in their TV licence area via a dedicated news service," Senator Conroy said.

Southern Cross GTS/BKN general manager Brian Beerman confirmed on Thursday that the Eyre Peninsula region would receive digital channels, but his colleagues had not yet been informed of the changeover details or procedures.

FreeTV chief executive officer Julie Flynn said the decision was "a big win" for regional viewers, who she predicted would "lead the way" in the transition to digital-only services.

"Now regional viewers can be assured that they will be able to enjoy the same advantages regardless of where they live," Ms Flynn said.

"Regional broadcasters in particular have undertaken extensive work to identify those areas where a digital terrestrial solution is viable.

"This means that the maximum number of viewers will simply need to purchase a high definition set-top box or integrated TV to receive all the new Freeview services."

The announcement came on January 5 and included an upgrade of digital terrestrial television services, as well as a fully government-funded satellite solution for viewers living in 'digital black spot' areas.

More information can be found at www.digitalready.gov.au or by calling 1800 201 013.