THE advertising campaign has only just started but the Federal Government will face a few hurdles getting Australia "digital ready" by the time it flicks off the analog switch in 2013.

Former ABC broadcaster Neil Inall spent about $1000 on a new set-top box and aerial last year so he could watch ABC2 but he has not yet been able to.

"There's something on this Monday night on ABC2 that I want to see but can't, so it's expensive and frustrating for no result," he said. He lives in Roseville and believes his home's location on a ridge was the reason he could get all digital signals except the one he wanted. After outlaying a significant sum on his television, the former Countrywide and Landline presenter wasn't prepared to spend any more investigating.

"We&apos ;ve virtually given up on it and hope that one day things get better," he said.

The inevitable hiccups of the switchover were downplayed by Communications Minister Stephen Conroy when spruiking the $6.7 million "Get ready for digital TV" campaign hitting television screens this month.

"For most people, getting ready for digital will be a simple and inexpensive task but it is important that all Australians are well informed to make the switch," Senator Conroy said. "There is no reason for people to wait to experience the benefits."

But Mr Inall said after about five visits from technicians, he could see how the hiccups could be a disincentive to make the switch.

"I'm sure it's a great step ahead but it would be nice to be able to use it," he said.

A Government research survey by the Australian Communications and Media Authority stated: "Providing consumers with accessible information about digital television … is identified as a challenge."

Media Access Australia chief executive Alex Varley said as the 2013 deadline approached, the issue would be less about ensuring people could afford set-top boxes or new televisions, and more about responding quickly to black spots as they emerged.