ARN today revealed its 2026 content strategy at its first-ever Upfront event, introducing two powerful national networks – KIIS and GOLD – unlocking unmatched opportunities for advertisers to reach audiences at scale.
With a fully integrated approach across audio, visual, social, and live experiences, ARN is redefining how brands connect with Australians through entertainment.
“In 2026, ARN will deliver true national scale across two of the most recognisable media brands in the country,” said Lauren Joyce, Chief Audience & Content Officer, ARN. “Through KIIS and GOLD, advertisers can access cohesive national campaigns, premium content, and storytelling that spans every platform – all built on the power of connection.”
THE GOLD NETWORK: NOW TRULY NATIONAL
In 2026, GOLD will unite audiences across Australia under one iconic brand, creating a single destination for great songs, great chat, and real connection.
- Sydney and Melbourne remain home to market leaders GOLD101.7 and GOLD104.3.
- Perth’s 96FM becomes GOLD96FM, with Lisa Shaw and Russell Clarke live and local each morning.
- Adelaide’s Cruise1323 evolves into GOLD1323, with refreshed programming designed to attract a younger, highly engaged audience.
- New GOLD DAB+ stations will launch in Brisbane and Adelaide, completing the network’s national footprint.
At its heart, the network will feature two marquee shows:
- The Christian O’Connell Show (Breakfast) – Finding humour and heart in everyday stories, now broadcasting across all five metro markets.
- Jonesy & Amanda (Drive) – Delivering the laughs, warmth, and companionship listeners love on the drive home.
Every market will continue to feature local news, sport, traffic, and weather, ensuring GOLD stays connected to the communities it serves.
“This is a landmark moment for GOLD,” said Lauren Joyce. “It’s about giving audiences a consistent listening experience wherever they are, while still keeping that local flavour they love.”
THE KIIS NETWORK: ENTERTAINMENT EAST TO WEST
In 2026, KIIS becomes a true five-city entertainment network, bringing its bold, fast-paced, and celebrity-driven brand from east to west. Building on KIIS Sydney and KIIS Melbourne;
- Adelaide’s Mix102.3 will rebrand as KIIS 102.3, with Ben & Liam returning home for a breakfast show packed with humour and local flavour.
- Brisbane’s KIIS 97.3 welcomes Craig ‘Lowie’ Lowe from LA to lead breakfast, combining hit music with comedic takes on pop culture, politics, and everything in between.
- A brand-new KIIS DAB+ station launches in Perth, bringing Kyle & Jackie O’s unmissable show to a new audience.
Network highlights include:
- The Smallzy Show at 3pm and 7pm daily – live and on demand via iHeart
- Will & Woody returning for National Drive, bringing even more energy and chaos
- Kyle & Jackie O’s iconic “You Get A…” moments becoming monthly live spectacles with live audiences, massive giveaways and star guests.
Beyond broadcast, the KIIS experience expands visually, with purpose-built sets designed for video and social content, extending the network’s presence across every platform.
Sub-brands will continue to grow, including KIIS Dance, KIIS Australia, and the launch of KIIS X on DAB+ and digital – a high-energy channel where the hottest hits and rising artists collide.
“KIIS is pure entertainment,” said Lauren Joyce. “It’s fun, fast, and everywhere our audiences are – on air, online and in person.”
ARN: CONNECTING BRANDS AND AUDIENCES LIKE NEVER BEFORE
With KIIS and GOLD now fully national, ARN offers advertisers a powerful, unified platform to reach Australians at scale – underpinned by premium content, trusted talent, and measurable impact.
“Our 2026 strategy is about more than just radio. It’s about delivering entertainment through star talent and creative ideas that deliver unforgettable experiences for audiences and results for our commercial partners.”