TOOWOOMBA residents have less than 50 days to make the transition to digital free-to-air television.

Half a million households across regional Queensland will make the transition on December 6.

This means that the old analog signal will be switched off for good.

So far 84% of households have made the conversion.

Digital TV will provide a better picture, sound quality and a wider variety of channels.

Residents may be eligible for the Household Assistance Scheme to get ready if they receive the maximum rate of the age pension, disability support pension, carer payment or Department of Veterans' Affairs service pension or income support supplement.

Minister for Broadband, Communications and Digital Economy Stephen Conroy said it was important to make the switch sooner rather than later.

"We want to make sure that each and every household is ready for this important milestone," Senator Conroy said.

Make the switch

• Attach a digital set-top box to your existing television set.
• Upgrade to a digital television that has a digital receiver built in.
• You can find more information about switching from analog to digital television at www.digitalready.gov.au or by phoning 1800201013.