Over the past 18 months ABC Commercial has been rebuilding its ABC Shop Online site, which now provides access to more than 10,000 DVDs, books, CDs, gifts, games and digital downloads, with the vast majority of products Australian-produced.

The first stage of the new site, which includes the digital download store, was launched in mid-2008 and allows users to buy or rent a selection of Australian television and audio programs.

Director of ABC Commercial, Lynley Marshall, said ABC Shop Online customers were now able to download and keep their favourite ABC shows.

“All video is standard definition so customers can play their files onto their TV screens and enjoy the same quality as broadcast TV,” said Marshall.

Programs available from the ABC Shop download store vary from comedy to drama, and from children’s programs to documentaries such as We Can be Heroes, The Wiggles, The Gruen Transfer, Dynasties and Australian commercial television product such as Sea Patrol.

Once completed the online shop will include Aussie classics such as The Dish, Muriel’s Wedding, Hey Dad, Prisoner, Thank God You’re Here and a wide range of books from Australian authors.

“This new site includes product and content from across the ABC as well as from other Australian production and publishing houses making it the leading online retail site for Australian television, print and audio content,” said Marshall.

The site is a finalist for best retail website at the forthcoming Australian Interactive Multimedia Industry Association (AIMIA) Awards.