ARN and the GOLD Network have launched Save Our Pub, a national, audience-led content initiative driven by The Christian O’Connell Show, celebrating the vital role local pubs play in Australia while rallying support for venues doing it tough across the country.

With principal partner XXXX on board, Save Our Pub calls on Australians to nominate the local pubs they believe deserve to be recognised and supported – the places where friendships are formed, milestones are marked and communities come together.

Over the coming weeks Christian O’Connell, known for his warmth and storytelling, will spotlight the stories behind these much-loved pubs – the people who run them, the locals who support them and the challenges they face – with five pubs across Australia each receiving a $5,000 boost.

Built on audience-led storytelling, the six-week initiative is a true cross-platform experience, extending across GOLD’s national network alongside digital, social, out-of-home, and on-ground activations – reinforcing ARN’s strategy to build scalable moments that live beyond radio.

ARN Chief Content Officer Kerri Elstub said: “Save Our Pub is a perfect example of how we’re building modern content experiences – radio‑first ideas that are designed to connect across audio, video, social and real life. At its heart, it’s about people, community, and shared stories.”

XXXX has partnered with the campaign as a natural fit for its commitment to celebrating connection, community and the role local pubs play in bringing people together, with the partnership brokered by EssenceMediacom.

Karen Sterling-Levis, Lion Core Beer Brand Director said: “XXXX has always stood for easy going good times shared with mates, and pubs are where those moments come to life every day. We’re proud to support this exciting project that recognises the important role the “local” plays in creating connection, community, and memorable moments – over a cold beer, of course.”

Jenni Lees, Director of Integrate by ARN, said the partnership demonstrates how brands can play a meaningful role in audience‑led content.

“The most effective partnerships today aren’t about interruption; they’re about enabling action. Save Our Pub shows how brands can support ideas that audiences genuinely care about, while still delivering scale and impact.”

Originally unveiled as part of ARN’s 2026 Upfront slate, Save Our Pub reflects ARN’s continued shift toward large-scale, culturally relevant ideas that connect brands with consumers across audio, video, social and live experiences.

Nominations for Save Our Pub open today via the GOLD website.

The Christian O’Connell Show can be heard from 6-9am weekdays on GOLD101.7 in Sydney, GOLD104.3 in Melbourne, GOLD DAB+ in Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane and via the free iHeart app.

ARN has announced two senior leadership appointments, strengthening its strategic and commercial foundations as it continues its evolution into an entertainment business.

The appointments of Scott Lyons as Director of Strategy and Janine Chambers as Head of Commercial Finance reflect ARN’s focus on long-term value creation, disciplined decision-making and sustainable growth across audio, digital and live entertainment.

Scott Lyons, reporting to Chief Financial Officer Alexis Poole, will lead ARN’s enterprise-wide strategy agenda, partnering with the Executive Leadership Team to accelerate strategic execution and support ARN’s evolution into Australia’s leading digitally driven entertainment business.

Janine Chambers has been appointed Head of Commercial Finance, overseeing end-to-end commercial finance partnering across Sales, Marketing and Content. She will strengthen forecast discipline, margin management, governance and investment decision-making, supporting ARN’s focus on profitable digital growth and operational efficiency.

ARN Chief Financial Officer Alexis Poole said: “As ARN continues its evolution into a scaled entertainment business, strengthening our strategy and commercial foundations is critical. These appointments reinforce how we make decisions, prioritise investment and build sustainable, long-term value across the organisation.”

Lyons joins ARN from Foxtel Group, where he held senior strategy and commercial roles across Kayo Sports, BINGE and Hubbl, with responsibility spanning revenue growth, pricing, performance and long‑term value creation. He brings deep experience in analytics, market intelligence and growth strategy across major consumer and digital businesses.

Scott Lyons said: “I’m excited to join ARN at such an important point in its evolution. The business has a powerful combination of leading content, audience scale and growing digital capability, and I’m looking forward to helping drive the next phase of strategic growth.”

Chambers brings more than 20 years’ experience across media and publishing in Australia and the UK. She joins ARN from IPG Mediabrands, where she was most recently Deputy Chief Financial Officer, and has previously held senior finance leadership roles at News Corp Australia, working closely with executive teams on transformation, capital investment and operating model change.

Janine Chambers said: “I’m thrilled to be joining ARN at such an exciting time.  The shift from radio network to entertainment company is moving at pace and I’m looking forward to supporting Alexis and the team to make the most of the opportunity ahead.”

Lyons and Chambers have both commenced their roles with ARN.

Launching Thursday 21 May on LiSTNR, Behind the White Line is a gripping six-part investigative documentary series that exposes the depth of Australia’s cocaine epidemic and the fractured law enforcement effort trying to stop it.

Produced by The West Australian the series explores how Australia has become the world’s biggest user of cocaine per capita. With the drug as accessible as food on a delivery app, the country is now the premier destination for international crime syndicates and Mexican cartels seeking record-breaking profits.

Hosted by multi-award-winning investigative journalist Richard Baker, and published on LiSTNR’s Secrets We Keep feed, the series takes listeners deep inside an audacious $1 billion sting operation. From the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) and West Australian state police dumping fake bricks of cocaine 70 kilometres off the Perth coast to the explosive turf wars between the AFP, the DEA and West Australian police, Baker reveals a system in conflict while cartels remain united.

Richard Baker said: “This collaboration with The West Australian has allowed us to look deep into a story that starts on the shores of WA but has massive national and international implications. We’re at a point where cocaine use is almost normalised in Australia, but there is a dark, complex trail that leads to those cubicles. While the cartels are working together with lethal efficiency, our own law enforcement agencies are locked in a fierce turf war. That friction gives the cartels a deadly advantage.”

Christopher Dore, The West Australian Editor in Chief said: “Behind the White Line is a powerful example of the kind of journalism The West Australian is committed to, deep, rigorous reporting that holds up to scrutiny and serves the public interest.  This investigation plays to our strengths across multiple platforms, combining the authority of our newsroom with the reach and immediacy of audio to bring a complex national story to life.

Clair Weaver, LiSTNR Head of Factual said: “Behind the White Line is a masterclass in investigative storytelling and a testament to the strength of our partnership with The West Australian. Richard Baker has uncovered a narrative that is as thrilling as it is sobering, shedding light on the scale of the cartels’ reach into Australia. Fresh off the back of the hugely successful Dezi Freeman: The Hunt miniseries, the Secrets We Keep podcast feed is Australia’s home for quality investigative journalism, and true crime stories.”

Listeners can also dive keeper into the investigation with exclusive reports, analysis and extended coverage available on thewest.com.au.

Behind the White Linepodcast launches today, Thursday 21 May. New episodes published every Thursday on the free LiSTNR app.

Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA), in partnership with Triton Digital, has released the April results for the Australian Podcast Ranker. The Ranker is the country’s only official, third-party verified podcast measurement system, governed by a cross-industry Steering Committee and backed by strong collaboration across commercial, independent, and non-commercial publishers. It sets the benchmark for podcast data in Australia.

Lizzie Young, CEO of CRA said: “As the medium grows and advertiser interest deepens, the need for verified, independent data increases. The Ranker exists to meet that need – a single, credible source of truth for a thriving industry. For advertisers navigating an evolving landscape, that transparency is what turns interest into investment.”

Who’s Listening, What’s Trending?

Brands that plan ahead will be the ones that make the Father’s Day wish lists. Male podcast listeners aged 25–54 are tuning in to Sports (57%), Technology (52%) and Leisure (47%). 82% are employed full-time and 60% own a car, making this a high-income, asset-holding audience. For automotive, tech and leisure brands, there is no more efficient window to reach them and no better medium than audio, which follows this audience anytime anywhere, well before their Father’s Day wish list is formed.¹

Australian Podcast Ranker top five genres April 2026
Genre		Monthly Listeners
1	News	4,936,275
2	Society & Culture	3,660,232
3	Sports	3,229,246
4	Comedy	2,445,777
5	True Crime	2,258,626

Australian Podcast Ranker top five podcasts April 2026
Podcast		Producer	Monthly Listeners
1	Hamish & Andy	LiSTNR (SCA)	832,058
2	Mamamia Out Loud	Mamamia	722,478
3	Sky News Australia Update	News Corp Australia	514,202
4	The Daily	New York Times	453,972
5	ABC News Top Stories	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	419,530

Sources: Triton Digital Demos+ Australian Survey Data (Q1’24 – Q4’25). All percentages represent composition of each genre’s monthly P18+ podcast audience.

About the Australian Podcast Ranker: The Australian Podcast Ranker is a monthly snapshot of the top 300 podcasts listened to by Australians, and the top 300 Australian podcasts. The Australian Podcast Ranker is an industry initiative commissioned by CRA and published by Triton Digital. Results comply with IAB Podcast Measurement Technical Guidelines.

SBS has appointed David Fernandez as National Manager, Digital & TV Sales, strengthening the broadcaster’s commercial leadership team ahead of a major phase of digital audience and advertising growth.

Following a comprehensive recruitment process, Fernandez was selected to lead SBS’s national digital and television sales portfolio.

Fernandez joins SBS from Cartology, part of the Woolworths Group, where he served as Head of Growth leading enterprise partnerships, commercial strategy and revenue acceleration across Australia’s largest retail media platform.

Prior to Cartology, Fernandez held senior commercial leadership roles at Meta, overseeing major agency and retail partnerships across ANZ and driving large-scale digital transformation initiatives. He brings more than 20 years’ experience across media, digital platforms, enterprise sales and commercial strategy.

Acting Director of Media Sales Lee Fifoot said Fernandez will play an important role in accelerating SBS’s media growth strategy.

“David joins SBS at a defining commercial moment for the network, as SBS prepares for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ — expected to be one of the biggest audience and advertising opportunities in Australian media this year,” Fifoot said.

“His experience leading high-performing commercial teams and building innovative, data-led partnerships across complex media environments will be invaluable. SBS continues to strengthen its market position and unlock new growth opportunities across our media portfolio.”

The role will see Fernandez lead SBS’s national TV and BVOD sales team. Fernandez said he was excited to join SBS and contribute to the next phase of growth for the broadcaster’s media sales business.

“SBS occupies a unique and increasingly valuable position in the Australian media landscape, combining audience growth, premium content, trusted news and a powerful representation of modern Australia that competitors can’t match.”

“With a slate that includes the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Alone Australia, SBS World News and the continued leadership of SBS On Demand — long recognised as a pioneer in BVOD — the opportunity for advertisers is incredibly compelling.

“The team has an outstanding reputation in market for creativity, partnership and integrity. I’m thrilled to be joining such an iconic brand and excited to help drive the next stage of growth for SBS Media.”

Fernandez’s appointment also marks a transition period for outgoing National Sales Manager, Keiran Beasley, who will continue supporting the business throughout the FIFA World Cup^TM campaign and depart the business on 26 June 2026.

“Keiran has made an enormous contribution to SBS over more than 13 years and has played a significant role in shaping the success of our media sales business,” said Fifoot.

“On behalf of the entire SBS Media team, I want to sincerely thank Keiran for his dedication, leadership and friendship over many years, and we wish him every success for the future.”

Fernandez will commence in the role with SBS in coming months.

1+1	Hamish & AndyLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	832,058	1,552,516
2-1	Mamamia Out LoudMamamia	Mamamia	722,478	1,507,895
3+1	Sky News Australia UpdateNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	514,202	868,511
4+9	The DailyNew York Times	ARN / iHeart	453,972	1,273,064
5-2	ABC News Top StoriesAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	419,530	2,013,938
6	ConversationsAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	409,942	2,500,726
7+1	Life UncutLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	387,266	826,042
8+2	SEN BreakfastSports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	355,412	1,290,134
9+7	Dan Does FootyDM Podcasts	LiSTNR (SCA)	345,505	485,221
10+2	The FrontNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	334,726	833,811
11+4	Happy Hour with Lucy & NikkiLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	331,638	571,710
12+2	The ImperfectsLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	326,376	522,543
13-2	ABC News DailyAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	326,232	1,005,810
14+8	Australian True CrimeARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	288,309	802,550
15-6	The UpdateNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	280,912	487,777
16+1	If You’re ListeningAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	272,022	886,682
17+1	Global News PodcastBBC	ARN / iHeart	258,925	896,911
18+3	The QuickyMamamia	Mamamia	255,658	734,637
19+1	Full StoryGuardian Media Group	Guardian Australia / Acast	246,691	794,911
20+8	No FilterMamamia	Mamamia	226,659	418,945
21+2	Politics NowAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	225,473	787,251
22+18	Triple M Footy AFLLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	225,157	442,199
23	The Inspired UnemployedLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	222,981	311,062
24	I Catch Killers with Gary JubelinNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	208,571	475,196
25	7amSolstice Media	Solstice Media / NOVA Entertainment	202,236	701,359
26+6	Stuff You Should KnowARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	201,529	636,616
27+4	NSW News BulletinsTapt Media	Tapt Media	201,013	367,994
28-23	MAFS Funny PodcastNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	196,099	365,733
29+4	On Purpose with Jay ShettyARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	194,481	388,185
30+5	True Crime ConversationsMamamia	Mamamia	194,068	387,902
31+15	Straight Talk with Mark BourisNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	191,849	281,123
32+16	CommSec Market UpdateLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	180,578	370,520
33-6	SBS News In DepthSpecial Broadcasting Service	Special Broadcasting Service	176,065	412,231
34-4	The Daily AusThe Daily Aus	The Daily Aus	174,035	451,319
35+6	The Howie GamesLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	170,420	356,124
36-2	The Case OfAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	169,655	573,398
37-8	Squiz TodaySquiz Media	Squiz Media	166,216	398,621
38-1	Global Roaming with Geraldine Doogue and Hamish MacdonaldAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	158,636	688,285
39+14	7News Just InLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	155,664	293,799
40-2	She’s On The MoneyARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	155,597	352,623
41+8	RedHandedAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	148,697	467,820
42+9	Everyone Has An ExMamamia	Mamamia	147,328	257,244
43	No Such Thing As A FishAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	146,179	397,622
44-2	Short History Of…Audioboom	ARN / iHeart	144,068	296,098
45-19	ExpanseAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	143,436	460,666
46-27	Ben Fordham LiveTapt Media	Tapt Media	142,033	294,857
47-2	Big Small TalkLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	141,027	234,975
48+7	Pod Save AmericaAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	138,349	323,669
49-2	Backstage with Cooper & Matty JohnsJohns Media	NOVA Entertainment / Johns Media	137,961	220,685
50+7	Triple M Rocks Footy NRLLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	133,053	270,765
51-1	Smosh Reads Reddit StoriesAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	132,621	264,606
52-8	The BriefingLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	128,080	398,854
53+74	ABC Business DailyAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	126,403	350,902
54+16	The Rush Hour with JB & BillyLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	126,162	231,262
55-1	Dyl & FriendsClubby Sports	Clubby Sports / ARN / iHeart	125,464	198,193
56+2	WhateleySports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	123,158	551,490
57+3	Late Night LiveAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	121,590	709,857
58-6	SBS News UpdatesSpecial Broadcasting Service	Special Broadcasting Service	120,896	440,693
59-3	AMAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	117,219	492,109
60+6	Chat 10 Looks 3DM Podcasts	LiSTNR (SCA)	113,679	200,416
61+1	The Ezra Klein ShowNew York Times	ARN / iHeart	112,255	191,555
62-26	Sick to DeathNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	109,436	209,560
63+1	Life and Crimes with Andrew RuleNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	106,626	221,165
64-25	The Morning EditionNine Publishing	Nine	106,588	280,800
65+6	No One Saw It ComingAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	106,460	352,306
66+2	Levels PodcastDM Podcasts	LiSTNR (SCA)	103,861	137,924
67	All In The MindAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	103,784	269,246
68+82	The HeadlinesNew York Times	ARN / iHeart	97,212	159,560
69+64	Love TrappedARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	96,670	227,047
70-7	Background BriefingAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	95,310	302,422
71+15	Bizarre with Mick Molloy and Titus O’ReilyLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	93,210	185,706
72+2	The Bye Round With James GrahamThe Bye Round	The Bye Round	89,984	159,598
73+8	The FinNine Publishing	Nine	89,338	138,581
74+4	My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia HardstarkARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	88,264	239,185
75+2	Behind the BastardsARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	86,653	194,442
76-4	KICPodLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	85,592	142,658
77+3	What’s That Rash?Australian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	85,556	262,469
78-2	Today in FocusGuardian Media Group	Guardian Australia / Acast	83,811	265,667
79-6	ChanticleerNine Publishing	Nine	83,413	116,416
80-15	Kiss & KillLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	82,493	135,714
81+4	Real Survival StoriesAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	80,228	147,181
82-3	The World TodayAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	78,541	249,245
83	The SpillMamamia	Mamamia	78,366	280,394
84+198	Science FrictionAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	75,364	286,911
85+10	Health ReportAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	74,364	317,056
86+22	Dr Karl PodcastAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	73,672	201,529
87	Outspoken the PodcastARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	73,476	125,777
88+5	Naked CityNine Publishing	Nine	73,364	154,096
89-1	UnleashedMamamia	Mamamia	73,329	117,477
90	PMAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	72,131	232,656
91+5	Ladies, We Need To TalkAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	71,581	186,875
92+2	Roy and HG – Bludging on the BlindsideAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	71,111	167,034
93-18	BetrayalARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	70,691	208,273
94+28	Two Broke ChicksNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	70,648	112,021
95+60	World News Weekly – An SBS World News PodcastSpecial Broadcasting Service	Special Broadcasting Service	70,178	216,552
96+11	The Tim Dillon ShowAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	70,077	98,950
97-8	Secrets We KeepLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	68,607	149,245
98+11	Football WeeklyGuardian Media Group	Guardian Australia / Acast	65,179	132,027
99-40	HackAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	64,891	165,699
100+3	High ScrollersNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	64,665	111,325
101+44	Drive with Jacqui FelgateTapt Media	Tapt Media	64,185	104,515
102-3	FEAR & GREED | Business NewsNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	63,837	214,440
103-2	Murder With My HusbandARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	61,957	127,878
104+10	Cautionary Tales with Tim HarfordARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	61,506	115,068
105+13	Everyone RelaxLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	60,119	135,178
106-45	Weekend One on OneSpecial Broadcasting Service	Special Broadcasting Service	59,225	81,390
107+4	You’re Dead to MeBBC	ARN / iHeart	58,859	125,734
108-10	Radio National BreakfastAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	55,883	342,234
109	The InterviewNew York Times	ARN / iHeart	55,426	76,010
110+2	Hear Me OutNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment / ODd Network	55,164	73,813
111+21	The Psychology of your 20sARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	55,071	97,723
112+13	The Economy, StupidAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	54,485	112,566
113+8	Two Doting Dads with Matty J & AshARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	54,350	97,065
114+10	The Money PuzzleNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	52,205	103,550
115+8	Big IdeasAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	51,989	170,264
116+33	TradiesClubby Sports	Clubby Sports / ARN / iHeart	51,067	84,986
117-13	3AW Breakfast with Ross and RusselTapt Media	Tapt Media	50,965	133,291
118+66	3AW is FootballTapt Media	Tapt Media	50,628	177,063
119+24	The Bulwark PodcastAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	49,904	141,568
120-29	SBS On the MoneySpecial Broadcasting Service	Special Broadcasting Service	49,547	219,122
121+19	NightlifeAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	49,344	302,139
122-5	The TakeAl Jazeera	Al Jazeera	49,073	104,531
123+7	KIC BumpLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	48,735	68,254
124+20	Life MattersAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	48,303	212,752
125+10	The Sounding BoardSports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	48,095	99,787
126-7	3AW Mornings with Tom ElliottTapt Media	Tapt Media	47,749	123,948
127+27	Motive & MethodTapt Media	Tapt Media	47,421	94,341
128+6	SuperCoach AFL: The Official PodcastNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	46,923	73,676
129-23	Fitzy, Wippa & KateNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	46,914	96,358
130+16	NRL 360News Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	46,740	80,536
131-5	Giddy Up with Gareth HallSports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	46,386	197,232
132+5	AmericastBBC	ARN / iHeart	46,268	97,573
133+50	Six Tackles With GusTapt Media	Tapt Media	46,188	70,184
134-14	SerialNew York Times	ARN / iHeart	46,048	89,724
135-4	We Don’t Have Time For ThisWe Don’t Have Time For This	We Don’t Have Time For This	44,016	103,020
136+11	It Could Happen HereARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	43,793	99,400
137	The IdiotNew York Times	ARN / iHeart	43,673	80,113
138+4	Motley Fool MoneyLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	42,657	79,514
139+25	SportsdaySports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	42,499	154,373
140+17	True Crime with Kendall RaeAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	41,948	91,371
141+87	The Binge Cases: My Mother’s LiesARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	41,805	92,932
142-37	Australia WideAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	40,871	117,774
143-5	Saturday ExtraAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	40,770	150,637
144+18	Hard ForkNew York Times	ARN / iHeart	40,602	57,659
145-30	Dear RachelleNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	40,584	68,817
146-49	The Grade CricketerDM Podcasts	LiSTNR (SCA)	40,536	60,781
147+22	Revisionist HistoryARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	40,373	99,006
148-12	Mick in The Morning with Roo, Titus and RosieLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	39,858	104,194
149+22	Eddie and JimmyTapt Media	Tapt Media	39,775	74,040
150-9	Pod Save the WorldAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	39,562	68,131
151+24	Real FootyNine Publishing	Nine	39,349	69,761
152+60	Headlines on healthSpecial Broadcasting Service	Special Broadcasting Service	38,918	48,607
153+26	The National BriefingLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	38,866	71,932
154+9	The Documentary PodcastBBC	ARN / iHeart	38,764	161,818
155+6	Football DailyBBC	ARN / iHeart	38,589	113,812
156+17	Vain-ishLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	38,510	58,019
157+44	Imagine ThisAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	38,295	347,232
158	History ExtraAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	38,288	132,491
159+1	You BeautyMamamia	Mamamia	37,948	111,748
160-1	Matt & Alex – All Day BreakfastLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	37,753	79,640
161+30	ABC AFL DailyAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	37,314	108,336
162+5	The Hard Ball Gets AFL ShowWest Australian Newspapers	West Australian Newspapers	36,082	58,043
163+14	What The Duck?!Australian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	35,936	123,771
164-51	The CircusDM Podcasts	LiSTNR (SCA)	35,457	45,045
165+7	Rear VisionAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	34,638	90,997
166+2	NewshourBBC	ARN / iHeart	34,602	133,503
167+14	Parenting Out LoudMamamia	Mamamia	34,504	53,352
168+74	Badge of BetrayalPodshape	Podshape / NOVA Entertainment	34,293	65,940
169+7	Drive with Joel & FletchSports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	33,995	127,751
170-19	SBS Cantonese – SBS廣東話節目Special Broadcasting Service	Special Broadcasting Service	33,848	142,338
171-71	BronwynNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	33,653	71,702
172-6	The Science ShowAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	33,329	112,772
173+41	Matty & CronkNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	33,245	53,062
174+6	Australian PoliticsGuardian Media Group	Guardian Australia / Acast	33,126	57,109
175+56	The OpinionsNew York Times	ARN / iHeart	33,111	47,755
176-48	Triple M Breakfast with Beau, Cat and WoodsyLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	33,015	47,572
177+8	Somehow Related with Dave O’Neil & Glenn RobbinsTapt Media	Tapt Media	32,981	66,745
178+9	CredlinNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	32,970	72,962
179+9	AIN’T THAT SWELLDM Podcasts	LiSTNR (SCA)	32,269	56,565
180+14	Desert Island DiscsBBC	ARN / iHeart	32,240	64,708
181+32	Al Jazeera News UpdatesAl Jazeera	Al Jazeera	31,897	176,871
182-8	Breaking Points with Krystal and SaagarARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	31,801	73,585
183+58	Two Ts In A Pod with Teddi Mellencamp and Tamra JudgeARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	31,697	93,188
184-36	World Of SecretsBBC	ARN / iHeart	31,633	74,436
185+38	167 PodcastDM Podcasts	LiSTNR (SCA)	31,487	45,690
186+16	Mornings with Mark LevyTapt Media	Tapt Media	31,357	70,027
187-22	The Inside Story PodcastAl Jazeera	Al Jazeera	31,088	55,652
188	History Or Hoarding? With Annabel CrabbAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	30,929	50,361
189+85	The Radio National HourAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	30,894	95,880
190-34	F1 NationAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	30,694	56,137
191+6	Something To Talk AboutNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	30,410	53,581
192+6	HeavyweightARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	30,351	48,408
193	F1: Beyond The GridAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	30,177	51,923
194+27	Dino DomeAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	30,093	298,245
195+1	Odd LotsARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	29,973	78,726
196-6	Nothing To WearMamamia	Mamamia	29,899	49,280
197	In Our TimeBBC	ARN / iHeart	29,854	52,161
198+28	The Mums’ GroupARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	29,482	42,692
199-89	Fifi, Fev & Nick – 101.9 The Fox MelbourneLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	29,247	43,903
200+44	MIDMamamia	Mamamia	28,943	44,883
201-72	StalkedBBC	ARN / iHeart	28,845	41,417
202-32	ABC RewindAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	28,415	76,771
203+1	The Broski Report with Brittany BroskiAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	28,388	46,165
204+6	The Global StoryBBC	ARN / iHeart	27,954	78,651
205-121	Not StupidAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	27,611	56,016
206+9	Friday Night Comedy from BBC Radio 4BBC	ARN / iHeart	27,567	56,028
207+40	Crunch TimeSports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	27,336	73,945
208	13 Minutes to the MoonBBC	ARN / iHeart	27,111	77,145
209-107	Hamish & Andy Plus +LiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	26,877	64,949
210-5	How To Fail With Elizabeth DayARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	26,808	45,790
211+22	The MinefieldAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	26,754	60,186
212+31	Law ReportAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	26,626	63,087
213-21	Prime Time with Bec WilsonTapt Media	Tapt Media	26,483	48,575
214+32	Double A Chattery with Amanda Keller and Anita McGregorARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	26,355	52,785
215-33	SBS News in Easy EnglishSpecial Broadcasting Service	Special Broadcasting Service	26,324	146,698
216+68	Off Duty | The Guardian InvestigatesGuardian Media Group	Guardian Australia / Acast	26,229	59,997
217-6	Ancient CivilisationsAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	26,226	51,985
218+6	The Bolt ReportNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	26,137	59,499
219+3	Insiders PodcastAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	26,081	54,289
220+25	Modern LoveNew York Times	ARN / iHeart	26,076	38,157
221-69	Carrie & TommyLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	25,686	76,233
222-6	FOX FOOTY PodcastsNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	25,614	60,138
223	The Ella EraTapt Media	Tapt Media	25,424	40,133
224+45	Download This ShowAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	25,350	49,311
225-6	Brooke and Jeffrey: Second Date UpdateARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	25,063	109,186
226-40	Squiz KidsSquiz Media	Squiz Media	25,036	102,908
227+10	3AW Sports TodayTapt Media	Tapt Media	24,788	61,599
228+10	The Buck Up with Kate Langbroek and Nath ValvoARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	24,750	45,858
229-4	Serialously with Annie EliseAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	24,441	59,890
230+31	The Hook UpAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	24,418	53,216
231-14	Paul Murray LiveNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	24,344	57,582
232+2	Stuff They Don’t Want You To KnowARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	24,286	71,873
233+57	Interesting Times with Ross DouthatNew York Times	ARN / iHeart	23,789	33,056
234+51	Car Trip TriviaNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	23,414	72,548
235+13	No DunksARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	23,183	56,233
236+52	Secrets of the UnderworldPodshape	Podshape / NOVA Entertainment	22,866	43,169
237+16	Take 5Australian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	22,863	48,159
238	UncannyBBC	ARN / iHeart	22,828	46,301
239+11	ok storytimeARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	22,680	72,907
240-51	UnravelAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	22,678	74,275
241-41	Betoota TalksDM Podcasts	LiSTNR (SCA)	22,561	41,057
242-173	ABC SPORT DailyAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	22,402	56,540
243-35	ABC Cricket PodcastAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	22,285	39,630
244-26	The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie SantosARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	22,240	39,873
245	The Agenda Setters: AFLLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	22,159	35,059
246+9	Fin vs HistoryAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	22,021	47,328
247+19	Sh***ed Married AnnoyedAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	21,948	44,996
248+3	Skye & CallumNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	21,749	30,525
249-40	Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen YangARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	21,706	33,885
250-21	Big Business with Brittney SaundersNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	21,653	38,832
251-19	The Contrarians with Adam and AdirTapt Media	Tapt Media	21,638	42,166
252+2	Morning Glory with Matty JohnsSports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	21,563	35,662
253+14	The SuperCoach NRL PodcastNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	21,414	33,557
254-76	Real DictatorsAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	21,409	50,845
255+31	CODE NRLNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	21,239	35,206
256+2	Bulwark TakesAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	21,049	96,667
257-22	Politics Weekly AmericaGuardian Media Group	Guardian Australia / Acast	20,896	29,892
258+25	This Is ImportantARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	20,686	34,640
259-7	Dr Justin Coulson’s Happy FamiliesARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	20,510	73,736
260-54	In Our Time: HistoryBBC	ARN / iHeart	20,496	32,057
261-2	The Missing MatterPodshape	Podshape / NOVA Entertainment	20,419	39,878
262	Short & CurlyAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	20,324	198,067
263+13	6 Minute EnglishBBC	ARN / iHeart	20,185	50,079
264-44	The Nutrition CouchARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	20,126	35,190
265-58	Jase, Lauren & ClintNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	20,119	67,718
266+12	15 Minutes with the BossNine Publishing	Nine	20,083	32,067
267	The GirlfriendsARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	19,906	54,035
268+31	Real Crime with Adam ShandPodshape	Podshape / NOVA Entertainment	19,819	39,971
269+6	The Fairbairn PodcastDM Podcasts	LiSTNR (SCA)	19,682	30,085
270-8	Life of BrianClubby Sports	Clubby Sports / ARN / iHeart	19,553	29,376
271-8	The Minds of Madness – True Crime StoriesAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	19,537	44,731
272-36	BBCNewscastBBC	ARN / iHeart	19,337	64,150
273+20	Sherlock Holmes Short StoriesAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	19,203	49,796
274-4	This Working LifeAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	18,843	39,971
275-2	Smosh MouthAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	18,675	35,868
276+4	VIC News BulletinsTapt Media	Tapt Media	18,642	35,186
277	Australia ExplainedSpecial Broadcasting Service	Special Broadcasting Service	18,453	23,951
278	The Audio Long ReadGuardian Media Group	Guardian Australia / Acast	18,439	41,831
279-2	Kick Off with Brandy and JimmySports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	18,227	70,075
280	Hotter Than YesterdayNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment / ODd Network	17,958	21,266
281-189	The Smallzy ShowARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	17,870	18,765
282+13	History DailyAudioboom	ARN / iHeart	17,614	63,102
283	But Are You Happy?Mamamia	Mamamia	17,338	35,107
284+10	The Secret World of Roald DahlARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	17,297	36,230
285-46	Lu & JarchLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	17,176	29,411
286	Out of CharacterARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	17,107	37,284
287	The Book ShowAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	17,030	44,297
288	Crime Next DoorBBC	ARN / iHeart	16,953	42,461
289-32	Two Good SportsARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	16,893	40,514
290	Do Not Open This Book by Andy LeeLiSTNR (SCA)	LiSTNR (SCA)	16,777	58,240
291-10	RelatablesNOVA Entertainment	NOVA Entertainment	16,669	29,369
292	The Teacher’s PetNews Corp Australia	News Corp / NOVA Entertainment	16,649	36,349
293-63	The Binge Crimes: Fatal FantasyARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	16,646	40,447
294	Into the DarkARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	16,544	30,769
295	SEN AfternoonsSports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	16,537	49,821
296-69	Jonesy & AmandaARN / iHeart	ARN / iHeart	16,431	69,096
297	SEN WA BreakfastSports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	16,401	61,833
298-11	Sunday ExtraAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	16,385	51,232
299	ABC KIDS News TimeAustralian Broadcasting Corporation	Australian Broadcasting Corporation	16,330	164,291
300	SEN LeagueSports Entertainment Network (SEN)	Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)	16,319	54,874

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POWERED BY TRITON DIGITAL’S PODCAST METRICS AND DEMOS+

Triton Digital’s Podcast Metrics measurement service is certified by the IAB Tech Lab as complying with Version 2.2 of the IAB Podcast Measurement Technical Guidelines.Demos+, produced in collaboration with Signal Hill Insights, is a combination of survey data from a representative yearly survey of 12,000 monthly U.S. adults aged 18+ who listen to podcasts and Podcast Metrics download data.

HISTORICAL PODCAST RANKINGS
Triton Digital has retired the monthly publication of the Australian Top Publishers and Top Sales Representation rankers. The last active reporting period was May 2025.

ABOUT THE AUSTRALIAN PODCAST RANKER

The Australian Podcast Ranker lists the Top 300 podcasts from participating publishers that are consumed by listeners located in Australia. The All-Australian Top 300 Podcast Ranker lists only the Top 300 podcasts commissioned by an Australian publisher, consumed by listeners located in Australia.

The Australian Podcast Ranker is based on a calendar month reporting period. The entities listed are ranked by Monthly Listeners in accordance with the latest IAB Podcast Technical Measurement Guidelines. If you wish to sort by downloads, you can click on the “Downloads” column to re-sort amongst the existing data.

For podcasts with multiple categories in the RSS feed, we display and filter by only the first category.

DEMOS+ TOP INDEXING PROGRAMS BY AUDIENCE COMPOSITION

• The Demos+ Top Indexing Programs by Audience Composition lists podcasts that have a high percentage of their audience that falls within a particular audience characteristic. There are 40 audience characteristics, each with its own list of 50 podcasts.
• Among podcasts that Triton measures, the top 300 ranker podcasts ranked by average monthly users for the 6-month time period are eligible to appear in these lists. For each audience characteristic, the top 50 podcasts out of the 300 listed are presented. These 50 podcasts have the highest percentage of their audience that falls within that audience characteristic, as measured by Triton Digital Podcast Metrics Demos+. Triton Digital Podcast Metrics Demos+ utilizes both datasets: the Podcast Metrics IAB-certified download data and the Demos+ survey data. As a result, only participating entities that opt in for measurement are included.

The Ranker is commissioned by Commercial Radio & Audio and includes the participation of the following publishers and sales representation: Acast, Adore Beauty, Al Jazeera, ARN/iHeartPodcast Network Australia, Audioboom, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, BBC, DM Podcasts, Guardian Media Group, Hidden Brain Media, HODD Media, Johns Media, Kinderling Kids Radio, LiSTNR (SCA), Motorsport Podcast Network, New York Times, News Corp Australia, Nine, Nova Entertainment, Podshape, Ranieri & Co, RSN Racing & Sport, Schwartz Media, Sports Entertainment Network (SEN), Squiz Media, The Australia Institute, The Bye Round, The Chaser, The Washington Post Podcast Network, TOFOP Productions, Wavelength Creative, We don’t have time for this, West Australian Newspapers.

METRIC DEFINITIONS

• Listeners – A ‘listener’ is a single user who downloads content for either immediate or delayed consumption. Listeners are identified by a combination of IP address and user agent in accordance with the IAB filtering rules described in the IAB Podcast Measurement Technical Guidelines v2.2.
• Downloads – A ‘download’ is a unique file request that was downloaded. Downloads include complete file downloads, progressive downloads, as well as partial downloads in accordance with the IAB Podcast Measurement Technical Guidelines v2.2 filtering rules (i.e. spiders and bots, data centers, one-minute of content minimum download, etc.). This process filters multiple requests from the same IP address, user agent, episode and date.
• Publisher – An entity that represents a group of podcasts that it either commissions, produces itself or acts as the primary representative for that content in Australia.
• Rank
  •  “Debut” indicates that the show is new to the ranker, making its debut for the first time in the last 13 months.
  •  “Return” indicates that the show has returned to the Top 200 after having not appeared in the previous reporting period(s).
• Index (Monthly Podcast pop 18+) – Compares % of a podcast’s audience against the overall Australian monthly podcast listener population (age 18+). Eg: Index 125 “Genre X is 25% more likely than average monthly podcast listener to do purchase a new car.”

Thirty-five teenagers will ‘takeover’ Ballarat, sharing their stories as part of the ABC’s Regional Takeover Youth Summit.

Takeover is a place-based initiative that amplifies the voices of young people across the ABC and within their communities. Through school workshops, original storytelling, a youth Summit and a community grants program, the initiative shines a spotlight on regional communities and supports lasting, positive change.

Takeover Ballarat is made possible through our partners VicHealth, the Federal Office for Youth and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), with support from the Centre for Multicultural Youth and the City of Ballarat.

ABC Director of News Justin Stevens said the program provides a rare opportunity for regional young people to shape national conversations.

“Takeover gives young people in regional communities a genuine platform to share their perspectives with the rest of the country,” he said. “We’re looking forward to hearing how young people in Ballarat see their future; the challenges they face; and the ideas they have to strengthen their community.”

VicHealth CEO Professor Anna Peeters AM said the initiative plays an important role in empowering young people to lead the conversation on issues impacting them.

“Takeover creates a platform where young people are heard, valued and supported to turn their ideas into real change in their communities. As a long-term partner, we’re proud to have seen the incredible things young people have achieved through Takeover and can’t wait to see what Ballarat students deliver.”

Audiences will hear a diverse range of stories. Ella Sapiano is using photography to promote reptile awareness and conservation, while 15-year-old Kai Van Duin transformed her passion for drumming into launching her own drumming school for girls.

Patrick McGee reflects on building confidence and connection through his weekly community radio program, ‘Events and Weather Forever’, where he presents local weather with his own unique ‘Ballarat’ spin.

“Radio helped me understand what it feels like to be heard,” Patrick said. “More young people deserve a chance to do that. We’re the future after all!”.

Minister for Youth Dr Jess Walsh said programs like Takeover are vital in supporting young Australians to develop skills and contribute meaningfully to society.

“These programs give young people the tools and confidence to speak up about the issues affecting their lives, from mental health to identity and inclusion,” she said. “They are not just participants in the conversation; they are helping to lead it.”

The Takeover Ballarat summit will culminate in a red-carpet screening and ideas presentation, where participants will showcase their stories and propose initiatives to make Ballarat an even better place to grow up.

Through FRRR, funding will be available to help bring these youth-led ideas to life within the community.

Takeover Ballarat participants and their stories will be featured across the ABC throughout June.

The Takeover Ballarat Summit begins Monday June 1, with young people showcasing their ideas for change at the Civic Hall in Ballarat on June 4 at 4:15pm.

Find out more information about the program at: https://www.abc.net.au/takeover

Name	Story Summaries
Marley	Marley and her mum have logged 180+ volunteer hours at Sovereign Hill, stepping into 1850s costumes as a mother-daughter duo. They support deaf visitors with Auslan, and Marley is even learning skills at the blacksmith shop.
Mason	Mason’s life was shaped by grief after losing his father, leaving him with anger and a sense of emptiness. But time with his stepdad in car rides soundtracked by Metallica and joining Army Cadets helped him.
Andre	Spartan can feel like torture but it’s also driven by the challenge and fun. Andre is preparing to compete at the Spartan Kids World Championships in China later this year.
Bailee	Bailee is calm on the footy oval, but if you disrespect her culture, she won’t back down. She wants to keep travelling and learn as much about Indigenous cultures as she can.
Eloise	Medieval riding is huge in Ballarat and Eloise has jousting in her blood. Some of the world’s best professional jousters live in Ballarat, and she wants to join them.
Favour	Favour is one of the few girls of colour doing Calisthenics in Ballarat. She was self-conscious about the way she looked but her coaches and club embraced her. Their support taught her self-acceptance.
Kai	Kai’s been drumming since she was eight. It makes her feel powerful. At 15 she transformed her passion for drumming into her own drumming school for girls.
Sophie	Sophie and her crew are determined to win the century-old Head of the Lake race, but her crew are the underdogs. She rows for Ballarat High, the only public school that offers rowing in Victoria.
Xavier	At Ballarat City FC, Xavier said a tough season at the bottom of the junior National Premier League left the team drained. But through new recruits, harder training and a shift in mindset, the team turned things around.
Aayat	Punjabi School eases Aayat’s worries while she learns about her language and culture. Bhangra, an Indian dance style, is where she finds joy.
Bentley	Bentley has a fear of heights but isn’t trying to overcome it. Feeling scared drives him. Bentley is part of his dad’s hot air balloon crew. The higher he rises, the more grounded he feels.
Aimee-Lee	When Aimee-Lee’s farm was struggling, her Nan bought a tuckshop in Linton and they moved towns. Her Nan’s looked after her since she was a baby, so as long as they’re together, she knows everything will be okay.
Gabi	Growing up the only place where Gabi felt safe was at her childcare facility. Now she’s studying to be a childcare worker because she knows the difference it can make.
Patrick	Patrick hosts a weather and events segment for his school’s radio program called Events and Weather Forever. He’s recorded over 25 shows and aspires to be a radio presenter.
Toby	Toby bowls for the Superstars, a league for people with disabilities. Bowling with the Superstars helped him find his spark.
Christian	Christan spent hours stargazing with his great-grandad’s binoculars, but moving to Ballarat brought more light pollution. He’s joined his local astronomy club to help preserve the night sky.
Liam	Liam and his grandma had a shared ritual of playing chess. Even after her passing, the game remains a source of strength.
Beau	Beau is not defined by a genetic condition that makes his body swell. Despite not being able to play contact sports, he feels most free riding trails on his mountain bike.
Ella	Ella is using photography to promote reptile awareness and conservation. She hopes to become the first female president of the Victorian Herpetological Society.
Gabriela	Gabriela’s grandfather was a part of the stolen generation but rarely talked about it. She grew up not knowing about her culture. But that changed when she joined Aboriginal groups and found belonging.
Zana	When Zana’s family aren’t busy with on their egg farm, they drive out of town and attend Albanian cultural events. Her’s is the only Albanian family that they know of in Ballarat.
Federico	Federico believes anything can be an instrument if you try. Making beats has inspired him to learn new instruments and see the world differently.
Miley	Miley used to think dirt was gross and engineering was for men. But joining a Girls in STEM academy ignited her dream to become an engineer.
Madeline	Madeline’s horses helped her find her voice after struggling to speak. Her horses help her anxiety, and her selective mutism has improved.
Reuben	Reuben practices the saxophone and listens to jazz when days are tough. He has a disorder that causes tumours to grow near nerves but neurofibromatosis doesn’t make Reuben feel different – just unique.
Micah	Lawn bowls is in Micah’s blood, with his great granddad playing for Australia at the Commonwealth Games. He’s competed at the School Sports Australia Games and hopes to one day follow in his granddad’s footsteps.
Paige	Paige was homeschooled after struggling with separation anxiety. But after putting on an 1850s inspired costume and volunteering at Sovereign Hill her world opened and she became more independent.
Ollie	Ollie makes masks that represent animals. Making masks helps Ollie maintain calm, when their senses become overwhelmed by Autism and ADHD.
Anja	Anja uses art to communicate emotions she can’t say out loud because of her Autism. Drawing became her refuge and she was recently awarded an art scholarship.
Bonnie	Bonnie carries a rich musical legacy as a singer, guitarist, drummer and music teacher. A Cresfest busking finalist, she performs in Creole, her grandfather’s language, keeping culture alive.
Charlie	Charlie’s Pop didn’t find out he was Aboriginal until he was in his thirties. His Pop and Dad are now ensuring Charlie knows his history and together they’re keeping his people’s stories alive.
Indyra	Indy struggles to stick to hobbies – but roller derby is different. Once the game starts, her anger and anxiety disappear. The adult team is called the Ratpack, she skates with the Mischiefs – a group of baby rats.
Samirah	Samirah used to hide her Turkish culture because she was afraid of being different. Cooking traditional food with her family has helped her embrace it.
Allysa	Allyssa is the first student in her school’s history to graduate with a year 12 certificate and the first in her family to finish year 12. She knows she can achieve great things and is excited for what’s next.
Sebastian	Sebastian was removed from his Mum when he was four. After a tumultuous childhood, he ran away from home and reunited with his Mum. Now, he’s back living with her and they’re best friends.

For further information contact: 
Swathi Shanmukhasundaram 
Producer, Community Impact 
0430 652 003 
shanmukhasundaram.swathi@abc.net.au

ARN has signed two of the most influential and recognisable figures in Australian media, with Karl Stefanovic and Eddie McGuire set to join the network to create a major new entertainment format.

Karl Stefanovic and Eddie McGuire will join forces to co-create The Long Weekend – a bold new weekly news, sport and entertainment format designed to be full of opinion, energy and perspective.

The format promises three hours of great music, unmissable banter, big personalities, big opinions, and no-holds-barred discussions that will set the tone for the weekend ahead.

The Long Weekend will see two of the biggest names in Australian media discuss the biggest news, sport and entertainment moments of the week, joined by guests at the centre of the stories shaping the national conversation.

The Long Weekend is the first Australian-produced audio and video format with Australian distribution across broadcast radio, live radio streaming, podcast, social, free-to-air streaming, premium SVOD and global distribution across the iHeart network.

The Long Weekend will be broadcast live on the GOLD Network, Fridays 12-3pm across Australia, live streamed and on demand on iHeart, amplified on all social platforms and available via the iHeart global Network in New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, the United States and the UK.

This exciting new format will also be available on Australia’s leading video streaming platforms 9Now and Stan.

This announcement is a major statement from ARN as it builds momentum behind its ambition to become an entertainment business focussed on the creation and distribution of audio, video and social content and the development of in real life experiences for audiences and brands.

In a further extension of the landmark partnership, ARN and McGuire Media will collaborate on a new sport focused iHeart original podcast series for global distribution across the iHeart network. Both formats will be produced in partnership with JAM TV, Eddie McGuire’s production company.

Michael Stephenson, Chief Executive Officer of ARN, said: “Karl and Eddie are two of the biggest stars in Australian media and they are now at ARN. The Long Weekend is an excellent example of our strategy coming to life, premium audio and video content distributed across every platform, amplified on social and distributed across the globe on the iHeart Network. This is going to be brilliant.”

Kerri Elstub, Chief Content Officer of ARN, said: “I’ve known Karl for 20 years from his first day on Today. When big moments happen, there is no one better – he has a unique ability to relate to Australian audiences. Eddie needs no introduction. His influence and broadcasting prowess is legendary. I can’t wait to show you what they can do together.” 

Eddie McGuire said: “This is a wonderful new chapter. Karl and I have been talking about working together for years, and to do it on this scale, nationally on GOLD, internationally on iHeart, on 9Now and Stan and with JAM TV as a production partner is a once in a career opportunity. We’re going to bring our audience along to wherever the big news, sport and entertainment is happening, with great music in between. Karl is one of my closest mates in the industry. Now we get to do this together. Off we go.”

Karl Stefanovic said: “Since I was born, I’ve been a student of radio and announcers. The intimacy of the medium is powerful. Working with Eddie makes it even more exciting for me. We’ve been friends for a long time. We are both ready to disrupt the status quo and let me tell you, we’ll have plenty of fun along the way. God, don’t we all need that. ARN have given us this opportunity, now watch us go and have a proper crack.”

The Long Weekend will launch on June 19, 2026.

The Australian Government is moving to introduce new laws designed to make tech giants like Google and Meta pay for Australian news content. While CBAA supports the intent behind this legislation but we have serious concerns that the way it is currently written could leave community broadcasters behind. CBAA is advocating for changes to these laws. 

What is the News Bargaining Incentive? 

The News Bargaining Incentive (NBI) is a proposed new law that would require large digital platforms to either make deals to pay Australian news producing organisations for their content, or pay a levy to the government. That money would then be redistributed to the news industry.

The scheme builds on the existing News Media Bargaining Code. The NBI is expected to raise $200–250 million a year for the news sector. It is a major new funding source for Australian journalism – potentially ten times larger than the Government’s own News Media Assistance Program (News MAP). 

Empty heading

Why should community broadcasters be concerned? 

As currently designed, the NBI is likely to direct the bulk of new funding to large, established media companies – while most community broadcasters miss out entirely. 

The revenue threshold is a barrier. To be eligible under the existing News Media Bargaining Code, a news organisation must earn at least $150,000 in annual revenue. This threshold excludes approximately 44% of community broadcasters. 

Tech giants can satisfy the scheme by dealing with just a handful of players. Under the current draft, a platform like Meta or Google could meet its entire obligation by striking deals with as few as four major media companies. Large players will be funded to employ journalists and small, independent community publishers could be left with nothing. 

The payment formula doesn’t fit our sector. Any government levy funds would be distributed based on the number of full-time equivalent journalists employed. Community broadcasting runs on a mix of volunteers, part-time staff, and multiskilled contributors – a model this formula simply doesn’t recognise.

As a result, large commercial and public media organisations could receive a significant funding boost, while community broadcasters – who serve regional, remote and diverse communities, who train student and graduate journalists – will be largely shut out. 

What is CBAA asking for? 

CBAA supports the NBI and wants to see it pass – the news industry needs this funding. But we are pushing for targeted amendments to make the scheme fairer:

Remove the $150,000 revenue threshold so that smaller community broadcasters are not automatically excluded. 

Require at least 25% of platform deals to go to small and medium publishers (those earning under $50 million), so large outlets can’t capture all the benefit. 

Increase the incentive rate for smaller publishers to make it genuinely worthwhile for platforms to negotiate with community and independent news producers. 

Set aside 15% of any levy funds for a grant program that supports smaller and independent publishers, news deserts, and underrepresented communities. 

Add your voice, download and share the Joint Statement 

CBAA has joined a coalition of small and independent news organisations — including:

The Alliance for Journalists’ Freedom, Digital Publishers Alliance, Christian Media and Arts Australia, Disability Media Australia, Democracy Counts, Independent Multicultural Media Australia, Local Independent News Association, The National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters’ Council, News Technology and Society, Public Interest Journalism Initiative, Public Interest Publishers Alliance.  

These organisations are calling on the Government to fix these issues before the legislation is passed. 

• Download the Joint Statement and share it with your networks to help raise awareness of what’s at stake for community broadcasting. 

• Contact CBAA to share the stories of the news services your station provides to help us make the case for funding.   

• For more information about CBAA’s advocacy and policy work on the NBI contact Head of Advocacy and Communications, Reece Kinnane (reece.kinnane@cbaa.org.au)  

Nine Entertainment (Nine) has today announced a new radio show hosted by Karl Stefanovic and Eddie McGuire will stream on 9Now and Stan, in a multi-platform arrangement with ARN Media. 

The Long Weekend will be available as a vodcast on 9Now and Stan from Friday each week, in addition to being broadcast across the iHeart and GOLD Networks. It will focus on the biggest news, sport and entertainment stories of the week, and be available to stream on 9Now and Stan within 24 hours of first going to air. 

Nine Managing Director, Streaming and Broadcast, Amanda Laing said: “Nine has a deep commitment to audio through podcasting and vodcasting and it makes perfect sense for two of Nine’s talent to have their new show streamed on their home network. 

“Karl and Eddie are great broadcasters and we look forward to showcasing The Long Weekend, adding to the expanding content available to our audiences on 9Now and Stan.” 

Both Karl and Eddie’s respective commitments with Nine remain unchanged. 

9Now and Stan will stream The Long Weekend from 19 June 2026 through to December 2026.