Nova Entertainment has emerged as the country’s biggest radio network in terms of cumulative audience, with 6.5 million Australians tuning in each week across its Nova and smoothfm brands.
It’s a powerful result for the network in the second GfK radio ratings survey of 2025, and one that Group Program Director Brendan Taylor says reflects Nova’s consistent national strategy, and a deep connection with its listeners.
A record-breaking breakfast audience
The Nova Network also recorded the highest cumulative breakfast audience of any network, with 2,380,000 Australians starting their day with Nova content.
Taylor said cume is the key metric the business watches when measuring brand health and audience engagement.
“When we talk about cume, it’s the metric we use to gauge our connection with the audience in each respective market and nationally for the Nova network,” he said. “The audience that connects with or engages with us each week is outstanding.”
He added: “Given the changing listening habits over the summer, reaching that [6.5 million] figure puts us in a strong position for this time of year. It just shows the strength of the Nova brand.”
Smooth sailing in Sydney and Melbourne
Beyond Nova’s strong performance, sister brand smoothfm continues to deliver outstanding results, particularly in Sydney, where smoothfm 95.3 is now the #1 station overall.
“For 95.3 in Sydney to be the number one station is incredible, especially when you compare it to some of the bigger names and higher-profile personalities within us and the market,” Taylor said. “It consistently delivers and stays true to its promise.”
Taylor praised smooth’s team, led by Head of Programming, Pete Clay, for driving consistent results with a small but high-performing crew. “Look, smooth is a small team around the country, but they deliver significant results for not only us, but also our commercial partners.”
In Melbourne, smooth 91.5 remains a formidable player with strong consistency and continued appeal across workday and drive slots.
Chrissy Swan connects in afternoons and beyond
Nova’s afternoon lineup is also paying dividends, with The Chrissy Swan Show (2–4pm) now the most listened-to afternoon show in the country. Chrissy’s move into this slot has extended her reach beyond Melbourne, where she has long been a fixture in breakfast.
“Chrissy is so passionate about radio,” said Taylor. “She absolutely loves what she does. Jack [Charles] complements her beautifully on the show and keeps her grounded… and Sarah McGilivray has really gotten Chrissy into that great position where the connection that she has with her audience is really translating into the results we’re seeing.”
Chrissy has also stepped into the Sydney market recently, taking over from Kate Ritchie while she takes time off to focus on her mental health.
“What’s pleasing is how the team can band together, it shows the power of the Nova brand,” Taylor said. “Chrissy has jumped in and helped out this year, and it’s just resonating with the audience. It’s not just about one person.”
Ryan Fitzgerald, Kate Ritchie and Michael Wipfli.
Drive thrives with Ricki-Lee, Tim and Joel
Nova’s Ricki-Lee, Tim & Joel drive show continues to draw strong national audiences with its mix of personality-driven content, humour, and music. Taylor said the team’s on-air chemistry and behind-the-scenes work are key to their appeal.
“They’re just stand-out performers… it’s constant work, constantly adjusting the content, adjusting the music, adjusting the output to the audience,” he said. “And having that genuine connection amongst all three of them, we’re seeing it in the results.”
He credited Sarah McGilvray, who oversees the show’s production, with managing the team’s direction and flow.
Melbourne heats up: Jase & Lauren vs. Everyone else
The Melbourne radio market remains one of the most competitive in the country, particularly in breakfast, where Nova 100’s Jase & Lauren continue to lead in cume and show growth.
The duo recorded a 10.2% share, and while not #1, are edging closer to the position currently held by Christian O’Connell on the Australian Radio Network’s (ARN) GOLD 104.3, who recorded a 10.8% share.
“There’s always a lot of market noise… but Jase, Lauren and Clint are just great people to work with. They’re a very good breakfast show,” said Taylor. “They’re up against some quality competition, but it really shows that live and local connection counts, as does being able to engage with that audience on a daily basis.”
With The Kyle & Jackie O Show newly expanded into Melbourne on KIIS 101.1, the breakfast battleground has intensified, but Taylor says Nova is holding its ground through consistency, connection, and content built specifically for the local market.
Nova 100’s Jase & Lauren.
A bright future for radio
As Taylor reflects on Nova Entertainment’s nationwide success, he remains bullish on the future of live radio, even in an era of endless choice.
“Yes, there’s a lot of quality programs to listen to… but if there’s any attention we can have on our industry, it’s for the good,” he said. “There’s some great radio being produced… and people are connecting.”