New research has quantified the significant social value community broadcasting creates for communities across Australia.
The Social Return on Investment in community broadcasting report finds that $63.9 million invested in the community broadcasters included in the analysis creates an estimated $485.4 million in social value. On a conservative basis, that means every $1 invested creates $7.59 in social value, with the report modelling a potential range of $7.59 to $10.15.
The value created across community broadcasting
Social Return on Investment (SROI) measures the broader social, economic, and environmental value created by an activity. The report found positive social returns across specific communities within the sector where sufficient data was available to calculate an SROI:
- Christian community broadcasting: $8.70 in social value for every $1 invested, with a modelled range of $8.70 to $11.54.
- Disability community broadcasting: $7.30 for every $1 invested, with a modelled range of $7.30 to $9.97.
- Ethnic and multicultural community broadcasting: $4.59 for every $1 invested, with a modelled range of $4.59 to $6.26.
The report notes that these figures should not be treated as a direct comparison between different parts of the sector. Differences in operating models and available data affect the results, and the overall value identified by the research is likely to be understated.
Across the research, some of the strongest outcomes are experienced by listeners. Community broadcasting was found to support connection and representation, mental wellbeing and reduced isolation, participation in civic life, and stronger connections to communities.
While an SROI ratio could not be calculated for First Nations media, the research highlights its importance in sharing trusted local information, celebrating culture, sharing perspectives and giving communities a voice. It supports previously identified outcomes including stronger communities, strengthened culture, communication, and meaningful employment and participation.
Supporting the goals of Roadmap 2033
Led by Christian Media and Arts Australia (CMAA) this research aims to demonstrate and celebrate the impact of community broadcasting. The findings provide important new evidence to support Roadmap 2033 and its vision for community broadcasting to be at the heart of every community.
The research demonstrates how community broadcasters reach people who can be overlooked by public and commercial media, amplify grassroots voices and create spaces for connection through shared interests, circumstances, values and cultural identity. It also identifies community broadcasting’s broader contribution to a more inclusive, cohesive, and diverse society.
Read the report
The research provides new evidence for broadcasters, funders and policymakers of the contribution community broadcasting makes to Australian communities and the value generated by investment in the sector.
Read the full Social Return on Investment in community broadcasting report.
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The research was commissioned and led by Christian Media & Arts Australia (CMAA), in partnership with Disability Media Australia (DMA), Multicultural Voices Australia (MVA), formerly the National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters’ Council (NEMBC), and First Nations Media Australia (FNMA).
The project was part-funded through a grant from the Community Broadcasting Foundation (CBF), alongside philanthropic support secured by CMAA, with project support provided by the CBAA. The independent Social Return on Investment (SROI) evaluation was conducted by Think Impact.