Commercial Radio & Audio claims reform win in tech giant battle

Commercial Radio & Audio has backed proposed Albanese Government reforms designed to make Australian radio easier to find on smart speakers and reduce pressure on regional broadcasters.

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The package includes a radio prominence framework for online simulcasts on smart speakers. It would also reduce regulatory requirements for regional and remote commercial broadcasters to support investment and give operators greater flexibility.

CRA points to tech platform imbalance

Lizzie Young, chief executive officer of Commercial Radio & Audio, said global platforms had reshaped the market without carrying the obligations imposed on Australian broadcasters.

“Global platforms have reshaped the industry without the obligations or accountability Australian radio broadcasters have faced for decades,” Young said.

“Today’s announcement marks a turning point: a significant step towards the sustainability of commercial radio – Australia’s only 100% locally-owned and operated commercial media channel.”

Young said commercial radio remains free, local and trusted by 15 million listeners each week. However, broadcasters compete with global platforms that control distribution and attract a large share of local advertising revenue.

The audience figure comes from Edison Research’s The Infinite Dial 2025 study and refers to Australians aged 10 and older.

“That’s the imbalance the proposed reforms start to address,” Young said. “We thank the Minister for the engagement to date, and we look forward to the Government progressing this important work.”

Broader broadcasting changes proposed

The government’s wider package also covers audio description and increased captioning for television services. It includes measures for community broadcasting and support for First Nations radio services in cities without one.

The government is developing legislation to implement the reforms. The announcement did not provide a date for introducing the legislation to Parliament.

Anika Wells, Minister for Communications, said the changes responded to shifts in how Australians consume and engage with broadcast media.

“The Albanese Government values a vibrant and diverse media landscape, and we want to ensure our commercial, community and national broadcasters remain sustainable into the future,” Wells said.

“We will continue to work with broadcasters on reforms that enable them to deliver quality content to Australian audiences right around the country efficiently and sustainably.”