CBeebies, KidsCo launch down under

September 29, 2009 by Emily Claire Afan

Three of BBC’s branded channels, including preschool-targeted CBeebies, will launch on Australia’s regional subscription TV platform, thanks to a new distribution deal.

Come November, Austar subscribers will have access to CBeebies, BBC Knowledge as well UKTV HD, a blend of drama, comedy and entertainment in HD, joining UKTV and BBC World News.

The expanded distribution comes a year after the launch of CBeebies and BBC Knowledge on Aussie subscription TV provider Foxtel, both of which will now be available to an additional 728,000 customers. UKTV HD will also rollout on FOXTEL on November 15, replacing BBC HD.

Also beginning November 15, international JV channel KidsCo will make its way into the territory on Foxtel and Austar, reaching more than 1.5 million Australian homes

Subscribers will receive KidsCo’s range of programming, with the channel packaged as My Playtime through Foxtel.