Tennis fans won’t miss key Australian Open matches this year after the federal government changed the rules governing free-to-air coverage so the Seven Network could utilise its digital channel 7TWO.

Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has altered the anti-siphoning list so matches can be shown on the network’s digital channel where they might otherwise be cut due to clashes with scheduled programs.

Last year, Seven annoyed tennis viewers when it chose to screen the news, Today Tonight and Home and Away instead of the much-anticipated fourth round clash between Sam Stosur and Serena Williams.

“I am pleased to announce changes that will allow the Seven Network to continue coverage of matches on its digital multi-channel 7TWO where they clash with regularly scheduled programming on the primary channel,” Senator Conroy said in a statement.

“These changes will provide tennis fans with improved coverage of one of Australia’s premier sporting events.”

The anti-siphoning scheme currently bans free-to-air broadcasters from premiering listed events on their multichannels.

The exception for the Australian Open, made by ministerial directive, will become permanent following proposed changes to the law later this year.

The amendment will allow certain listed events, including the tennis, to be premiered on digital multi-channels.

Some 75 per cent of Australian households now have access to digital television.

AAP