NEWS / CHILDREN'S TV: ABC to launch dedicated kids' channel (AUSTRALIA)

ABC3 bows December 4, aimed at ages 6-14

By Pip Bulbeck

Oct 22, 2009, 01:03 PM ET

SYDNEY -- The Australian Broadcasting Corp. will launch its third digital channel, ABC3, aimed at kids aged 6-14 on December 4, the national broadcaster announced Thursday.

Announcing the on-air date and the channel's new hosts, ABC director of television Kim Dalton said “Australian kids will get an innovative, new entertainment experience; one which is designed to challenge and excite them.

Australian kids, he said, deserve “better quality content, that speaks with an Australian voice and a better variety of programs, that caters to different interests and tastes.”

The channel will feature both local and international programming across a range of genres including live action, drama, animation, sports, current affairs and game shows all funded with AUS$67 million ($64 million) from the federal government. ABC3 will launch with over 40% local content, expected to expand to over 50% within 12 months.

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