The ACMA has today released new research highlighting key trends in Australian viewing and listening habits.
The research found that in 2025, almost all Australian adults (91%) used an online service to watch video content in a given week, remaining steady from the year prior. YouTube and Netflix continue to lead the market, with viewership stabilising after a long period of growth. 
Paid subscription streaming services – such as Netflix, Stan and Binge – remain the most popular ways to watch content, used by 68 per cent of adults in 2025. Free-to-air catch-up TV and streaming services also held steady, attracting 44 per cent of adults. While ABC iview remains the most widely used service, its usage has dropped; meanwhile 7plus and 9Now gained more viewers.
After years of steady decline, traditional free-to-air TV (excluding catch-up) increased slightly, with 52 per cent of adults watching in 2025. Despite this modest rebound, viewership remains far below 2017 levels, reflecting the continued evolution of Australians’ viewing habits. 
After several years of decline, overall radio listenership stabilised, with nearly two-thirds (64 per cent) tuning in during the past week. However, online streaming remains the preferred way to listen to music, used by 72 per cent of adults in 2025, with Spotify still the most popular service.  
The ACMA research also found streaming services and broadcasters are using artificial intelligence to help audiences discover new content, improve the relevance of advertising and streamline production.
The research comprises two reports which have been published on the ACMA website:
· How we watch and listen to content: https://acma.cmail20.com/t/d-l-ghrljld-tlhiuitutk-r/: https://acma.cmail20.com/t/d-l-ghrljld-tlhiuitutk-y/
· Trends and developments in viewing and listening 2024–25: https://acma.cmail20.com/t/d-l-ghrljld-tlhiuitutk-y/.
The Trends and developments report provides overarching insights into broadcasting and digital media, while the ‘How we’ publications are interactive online reports which explore the ongoing changes to the Australian media and communications landscape.
The reports have been published as part of the ACMA’s  Communications and media in Australia: https://acma.cmail20.com/t/d-l-ghrljld-tlhiuitutk-j/ series, which features times series data on topics such as internet usage, broadcast and streaming consumption, mobile phone use and digital platforms.
The series draws on industry data and our annual consumer survey to provide an overview of the telecommunications, radiocommunications and broadcasting sectors each financial year.

ARN Media Limited [ASX: A1N] announces that Ms Jacqueline Henderson has given notice that she “cannot continue to work with Mr Kyle Sandilands.”  Accordingly, ARN has terminated the services agreement with Henderson Media Pty Ltd, under which Ms Henderson presents the Kyle and Jackie O show.  Ms Henderson will cease to present the Kyle and Jackie O show.  ARN has also offered to Ms Henderson the possibility of an alternative show on the ARN network.

ARN has also provided written notice to Mr Kyle Sandilands and Quasar Media Services Pty Ltd (Quasar Media) stating that it considers that Mr Sandilands’ behaviour during the show on 20 February 2026 is an act of serious misconduct which is in breach of ARN’s services agreement with Quasar Media, under which Mr Sandilands presents the Kyle and Jackie O show.  Mr Sandilands has been given 14 days to remedy this breach.  If it is not remedied, ARN will terminate the services agreement with Quasar Media, and in that event Mr Sandilands will cease to present the Kyle and Jackie O show.  During the 14 day period, Mr Sandilands will not take part in the show.

The KIIS breakfast show will be taken off-air effective immediately, with interim arrangements made for the show.

*     *     *     *     *     *

This announcement has been authorised for release by the Board of ARN Media

We’re delighted to welcome Lisa Rose to the CBAA team as our new Chief Financial and Risk Officer.

Lisa joins us at an exciting time for community broadcasting, as we continue to grow our capability, strengthen governance and work with our sector to develop Roadmap 2033 priorities. With extensive experience in mission-driven organisations, she brings a strong commitment to transparency, sustainability and practical systems that support people to do their best work.

We sat down with Lisa to learn more about what drew her to CBAA and what she’s looking forward to in her new role.
—–

What drew you to the CBAA?

Community broadcasting plays such an important role in giving diverse communities a voice and keeping media independent and locally connected. After many years working in mission-driven organisations, I was really motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a sector that supports inclusion, access, and community participation across Australia.

What are you most looking forward to doing to support the CBAA and our members?

I look forward to maintaining clear, transparent financial practices, strengthening risk management, and making sure our resources are directed where they can have the greatest impact for community broadcasters. I’m also keen to work closely with the team and Board to support sustainable growth, good governance and practical systems that make things easier – not more complicated – for our members and stakeholders.

If you could be the host of a community radio or TV show, with no limits on budget or guests, what would be your dream show?

If I could host a community radio or TV show with no limits, I’d love it to be centred around real stories from real people – everyday Australians to share their journeys – not just the highlights, but the challenges and lessons along the way.

I’d want it to feel relaxed and genuine, more like a good conversation than an interview. Something that leaves people feeling inspired, connected and reminded of the incredible work happening in communities all around the country.

—–

Lisa’s focus on clear financial stewardship, thoughtful risk management and sustainable growth will help ensure CBAA continues to support strong and successful community broadcasters across Australia. We’re excited about the perspective and leadership she brings to the organisation, and we look forward to working alongside her to secure the capacity our sector needs to meet community needs now and into the future.

Greens communications spokesperson, Senator Sarah Hanson-Young:

“For years, Kyle Sandilands has made millions off misogynistic, racist, and plain vile content. It’s time he was shown the door. 

“ARN have given him 14 days to explain himself, he should’ve been given 14 seconds to be out the door. History has shown he does not care about being sanctioned, or counselled and will not change. He’s had more than enough chances. 

“No wonder Jackie has decided to dump the show with Kyle. Years of abusive rubbish finally took its toll. 

“Kyle’s comments disrespect women and minority groups, and fuel a culture of hate and division. He is unfit to have a public platform, and he should be sacked.

“Why is it always the woman that has to leave? The abusive bloke should be the one that gets the boot.  

“No woman should have to put up with this nasty, demeaning crap – especially at work.

“The show has trashed our airwaves for long enough, ARN should cancel it for good, and Mr. Sandilands should be sacked immediately. How many more chances does one bloke need?

ABC Radio Australia is now available on DAB+ digital radio in Australia, making it easier than ever for Pacific communities to connect with trusted news, music, sport and culture from home.

Listeners in Australian capital cities, the Gold Coast and Launceston can tune in to ABC Radio Australia on DAB+, bringing the ABC’s international Pacific and Timor-Leste broadcast service to digital radio for the first time in Australia. 

ABC Radio Australia offers 24-hour programming including Pacific-focused news and current affairs, music, sport and cultural storytelling. The service has long been available internationally, and via the ABC Pacific website and ABC listen app, and its arrival on DAB+ expands access for audiences across Australia. 

The service showcases Pacific voices and perspectives, with content reflecting life, culture and conversations from countries including Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Vanuatu and the Northern Pacific, alongside stories about Pacific communities living in Australia. 

ABC Director Audio Ben Latimer said the launch was about meeting audiences where they are and deepening connections with Pacific communities. “ABC Radio Australia plays a vital role in reflecting Pacific voices and experiences and connecting communities across our region. 

“Making the service available on DAB+ expands access even further, helping more people engage with trusted Pacific news, culture and storytelling – in the car, at home, and in everyday life.”

Head of ABC International Claire Gorman said, “With support from the Australian government, ABC Radio Australia has doubled its broadcast footprint in the Pacific in recent years, and tripled its unique content, bringing the best news, sport, music and culture to Pacific audiences.

“It is only fitting that this is now easily available to Australian audiences on DAB+, so they can learn and engage more with the diverse and important Pacific region.”

Listeners can find ABC Radio Australia by scanning for DAB+ stations on their digital radio, alongside other ABC networks DAB+ networks ABC Jazz, ABC Country, Double J, ABC Sport, triple j Unearthed and ABC Kids listen.

Information about DAB+ including availability and tuning instructions can be found on the ABC’s Help page.

ABC Radio Australia is also available on ABC listen.

ABC Radio National is searching for Australia’s next generation of inspiring research communicators, to take part in this year’s ABC TOP 5 media residencies 

This morning ABC Chair Kim Williams launched 2026 applications for the ABC TOP 5 – which gives 15 early career PhD scholars the chance to spend two-weeks with some of the ABC’s leading journalists and producers. Applications are now open for the three media residencies in Science, Arts & Humanities.

Supported by Creative Australia, the University of Melbourne, University of Sydney and the Australian National University, the ABC TOP 5 project aims to equip early career researchers with tools to share their innovative ideas and insights with audiences across Australia. 

Kim Williams says that academics make an invaluable contribution to the Corporation’s News and specialist output. “In a time when facts are questioned and unsubstantiated opinions often dominate, it is vital that the ABC keeps Australians well informed, striving to offer sound objectively sourced information and analysis. 

“The next generations of academics will play a central role in shaping our future through assisting better public access to necessary news and information which will assist good decision making. This program is central to ensuring early opportunities for that next generation to commence an energising discovery and skills development journey.”

As Head of ABC Radio National, Dina Rosendorff is proud of how the ABC TOP 5 helps Australians to better understand the complex world in which we live: “As Australia’s premier destination for trusted ideas and specialist discussion, ABC Radio National cuts through the noise with depth, independence and intelligence.

“Today’s audiences want more than headlines – they want understanding. By supporting emerging researchers to develop new media skills, ABC Radio National is securing the future of rigorous, public-minded storytelling.”

Applications are open now and close 11.59pm (AEST) Sunday 6 April 2026. 

Find full details at www.abc.net.au/top5

The ABC TOP 5 media residencies are open to researchers across Australia:

• Humanities: PhD-qualified early career researchers in humanities, arts, and social sciences (HASS)
• Science: PhD-qualified early career researchers in science, technology, engineering, maths, and medical research (STEMM)
• Arts: Early-career Arts researchers – with or studying for a PhD in visual arts, architecture, design, performance, screen, literature, or music.

The ABC is proud to be working with our TOP 5 project partners: Creative Australia, University of Melbourne, Australian National University and University of Sydney. The vital ongoing support these partners makes the ABC TOP 5 possible:

The ANU supports the ABC TOP 5 Science, and Professor Sujatha Raman is Director of the Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science (CPAS): “The ABC Top 5 offers a fantastic opportunity for researchers across all disciplines to learn the art of communicating from Australia’s premier public service broadcaster.

“As the nation’s leading centre in science communication for public good, we at CPAS are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with the ABC. The Top 5 program promises to be a life-changer for the individual and a major contribution to the nation’s public discourse in the coming year”. 

Professor Julie Cairney Interim Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research) says the University of Sydney is pleased to be working with the ABC again: “Early career researchers are the future of our research workforce, and the outcomes of their work will shape Australia’s future society. Being able to clearly and compellingly explain their work is more important than ever. Better communication skills will help them to have a greater influence, which is why the University is proud to provide ongoing support for this ABC partnership.”

“The ABC Radio National Top 5 Arts Residency offers something rare and vital: time, rigour and a national platform to explore deep creative inquiry”, says Lara Wolski, Executive Director Development and Partnerships at Creative Australia. “We are proud to continue supporting this important residency, enabling arts practitioners and researchers to make meaningful contributions to national conversations, and bringing critical insight, evidence and creative practice to audiences across the country.”

Also essential for the ABC TOP 5 Arts is the support of the University of Melbourne. Professor Marie Sierra is the Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music and is very proud to have partnered with the ABC again: “’The TOP 5 Media Residency supports talented artist‑researchers to communicate their research to new audiences through innovative media training. It offers a valuable opportunity for arts practitioners to strengthen their capacity to articulate the significance and impact of creative arts research beyond academic contexts, into the economy and society.’

For more information and to apply visit: www.abc.net.au/top5: 

TOP 5 – ABC Media Residency Program, 2026 – ABC listen

Program Partners, & ABC TOP 5 alumni are available for interview; please get in touch

For victim-survivors of domestic abuse and family violence, the focus is, more often than not, on making a plan to leave. But immediate survival is only the first step on a long and difficult road to recovery, as victim-survivors explain in the fourth season of Future Women (FW)’s internationally-awarded podcast, There’s No Place Like Home: Paths to Healing.

“This season, victim-survivors and organisations join us to look beyond the moment of escape, to the kinds of practical supports that are needed in order to rebuild your life: having a job, being fi nancially secure, having a place to call home,” said executive producer Sally Spicer, who is also the series’ new host.

Spicer said, “Over six episodes, women running innovative pilots and programs share their experience and expertise. Each could be part of a national blueprint for healing and recovery that supports survivors to not only survive, but thrive.”

From , a survivor-led First Nations grassroots movement creating cultural healing and economic empowerment, to Good Shepherd’s , a national program supporting financial recovery after abuse, this season platforms organisations of all sizes.
There’s No Place Like Home: Paths to Healing was created by FW as part of its ongoing partnership with , a commitment to help end financial abuse and support people on their road to long-term financial independence.

“We know recovery takes time and that fi nancial security and access to ongoing support can make a real difference as people rebuild their fi nancial independence,” said CommBank Group Customer Advocate, Angela MacMillan, who also features in the series.

“We are an investment. We’re not a handout. If you invest in us, powerful women, and help us to navigate and get back to our lives, we can give so much back,” said Alecia*, who features in the season.

“I hope this season encourages audiences to refl ect on what it means to build a fulfi lling, happy life on your own terms – one with dignity, opportunity and joy. Not just the bare minimum,” added Spicer.

There’s No Place Like Home: Paths to Healing is FW’s first video podcast.

*Not her real name

Weekly podcast episodes will be released from Tuesday March 3, 2026

AFTRS has welcomed 164 new students into the Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production, Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting, and Master of Arts Screen programs during a lively action-packed Orientation Week.  

The week, which ran from 23 to 27 February, centred on conversations about story, the responsibilities of creators and cultural leaders, and how inclusive, well‑held spaces enable creativity and audacity, enabling boldness and shaping culture. The Orientation Week program was designed to initiate connections for new students: to the School, to each other, to Country, to craft, and to professional practice. 

The week began with students moving into AFTRS’ radio facilities and master’s spaces on Monday, before the Bachelor cohort joined on Tuesday for a School‑wide gathering in the main theatre. AFTRS Elder in Residence, Aunty Rhonda Dixon-Grovenor received students with a warm Welcome to Country, honouring thousands of years of continuing education and storytelling. 

AFTRS CEO Dr Nell Greenwood and Director of Teaching and Learning Maia Horniak formally welcomed commencing students for 2026 and this was followed by the 2026 keynote address:  acclaimed alum – writer, producer and director Jocelyn Moorhouse in conversation with AFTRS Director, Production and Facilities Darren Chau.  

In her address, Nell acknowledged the “paradox” of being an AFTRS student, learning in a building alive with alumni achievements while also being invited to experiment, to fail and learn.  

“AFTRS was founded in 1973, a bipartisan act of Parliament. And the act recognised two important things: firstly, stories really matter to a country. Australians need stories made by Australians, and we need a thriving local screen and audio industry,” Nell said.   

“Secondly is the incredible role education plays in that. Education matters. And formal learning was and still is one of the best ways that we can build and grow industries and also our culture.” 

Maia explained to students they are now a part of a professional ecosystem – one built on collaboration, generosity and trust. 

“When you walk through the doors here at AFTRS, you are not stepping into a holding space. You are not stepping into a rehearsal room for some distant future. You are stepping into the industry itself ,” she said, “and that means the relationships you build here, right from day one, are not just preparation for the future; they are your industry. The connections and collaborations you forge now are the very network that will support, inspire and shape your professional journey in the years to come.” 

Drawing on her own journey from student to director and now as an AFTRS executive, Maia reflected on the School culture: 

“I am an alum from AFTRS, a graduate in directing. I certainly couldn’t have done it without all of my collaborations. This role has deepened my belief in what makes this place so special – not just the facilities or the reputation, but the culture. A culture of shared learning with ambition, without ego, with generosity, curiosity and care,” she said. 

Jocelyn Moorhouse, in conversation with Darren Chau, also recalled the formative power of peers and mentors during her time at AFTRS and how these relationships that supported experimentation and commitment to craft translated into lifelong practice. 

“I would help my classmates; they would help me. We also had a classmate, Jane Campion, you might have heard of her. She was in the same year … and we would read her scripts and she would read ours,” said Jocelyn. 

Jocelyn said those are the years to be bold enough to fail, to try different things, and to be open to learning, reflecting on her own experiments as a student. 

“Those glorious failures didn’t feel glorious at the time. But looking back, I realised how much I learned,” said Jocelyn. 

“Keep your passion alive. Learn how to work with each other. You will be each other’s best allies. Don’t expect that you know everything now. Be open to opportunities and possible changes in direction. And have a great time. This industry is hard, but it’s also about people. I love turning up to set and seeing all these different kinds of humans coming together for the same purpose: telling a story. It doesn’t get better than that.”  

Orientation Week gave students access to AFTRS’ state‑of‑the‑art facilities, and students were introduced to the studios, props workshop, costume collection and post‑production spaces. In the broadcast facilities, students explored panels and radio equipment, gaining hands‑on familiarity with industry‑standard tools. 

Wednesday was dedicated to practice with students picking up cameras, working with radio equipment and practising blocking scenes, an early opportunity to translate ideas into action and getting to know each other. The day closed with a high‑energy drag trivia session hosted by AFTRS alum and RuPaul’s Drag Race star Etcetera Etcetera, which tested students on audio, screen, AFTRS and the unmissable Student Handbook. 

Thursday featured alumni and current students sharing practical guidance on making the most of their time at AFTRS. In the afternoon, the 2026 cohort was welcomed by AFTRS Artist‑in‑Residence (AIR), acclaimed actor and filmmaker, Mia Wasikowska, in conversation with Head of Research Dr Alejandra Canales, who invited students to engage with the program that has been running at the School since 2020.  

During her year at AFTRS, Mia has worked with students through both one-on-one mentorship sessions and in group conversations, as well as creating a personal documentary in collaboration with an MA editing student. 

Mia said the whole experience had been “wonderful’. She spoke to the new students about addressing and overcoming challenges, embracing creativity, working collaboratively and growing in confidence. 

Ale thanked Mia for her “generosity of spirit” and said the AIR program was an “important, deep, defining, and enriching” part of the school culture that provides an opportunity beyond award course activity.  

“The Artist-in-Residence program creates space to be in creative relation with one another, to interrogate your own creative practice, reflect on who you are as creatives, as storytellers, and deepen your understanding of the complex and diverse forms of collaboration you will encounter here at AFTRS,” Ale said. 

Orientation Week was led by the Student Centre team, whose work ensures that students feel seen, supported and ready to make the most of their time at AFTRS. Their curation of the week and the support of staff across AFTRS created an environment of connection among peers, teachers and future collaborators, as the new students embark on a lifelong commitment to craft and creative practice. 

Football Australia and the ABC have today announced a partnership that will see AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026™ broadcast via live audio, including all CommBank Matildas and knockout matches.

The agreement will see all Australians having access to the entire tournament through ABC Sport and ABC listen with the coverage to feature a minimum of 17 matches throughout the tournament.

This includes every CommBank Matildas match, selected key fixtures during the Group Stage, all quarter finals, both semi-finals and the final.

ABC Sport will have a dedicated AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 button on ABC listen for easy accessibility and discoverability for fans.

Tournament news and coverage will feature across the broader ABC network which includes eight metro radio stations, more than 40 local stations, and over 60 stations on ABC listen.

Football Australia CEO, Martin Kugeler:

“This is an important partnership that ensures live audio coverage of the CommBank Matildas and the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026™ which will extend the reach of the tournament to football and sport fans across the country.

“The ABC has a rich history of supporting football in Australia and it is exciting that they are back on board to broadcast one of the biggest football tournaments to be played on our shores.

“The CommBank Matildas are one of the most supported teams in the country and the live audio broadcast on ABC will allow everyone in the nation to get behind the CommBank Matildas and follow their quest to become Asian champions.”

ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks:

 “Securing the rights to the AFC Women’s Asia Cup 2026 was about ensuring Australians could access major international sporting events without barriers.

“The AFC Women’s Asia Cup is a significant tournament on the global football calendar and the ABC is pleased to bring it to audiences across Australia as the exclusive audio partner for the event.

“With Australia playing host, it’s even more important that audiences across the country can follow the tournament to cheer on our mighty Matildas.”

“Our coverage ensures people can follow the competition free and accessible and builds on the ABC’s commitment to deliver major national and international sport.”

Navigating early motherhood can be lonely, scary and sometimes straight up overwhelming, but it now doesn’t have to be, thanks to the brand-new Australian podcast The Mums’ Group.

Created by the team behind ‘Outspoken the Podcast’, The Mum’s Group is hosted by identical triplets and journalists Kate, Amy, and Sophie Taeuber. The show offers honest, funny and very real conversations about modern motherhood in a judgement-free space. Listening and watching along is just as though you were attending your own local mother’s group.

The podcast is a natural evolution for the journalist sisters, who became first-time mums in remarkably close fashion, with the identical triplets welcoming baby boys all within the space of a year. Kate and Sophie’s sons were born exactly 364 days apart, while Amy and Sophie’s boys have just nine weeks between them.

As triplets, the Taeuber sisters share 100% of their DNA, meaning their sons are genetically considered half-brothers, rather than cousins. A scientific fact that captures just how intertwined their parenting journeys are and serves as a foundation for The Mums’ Group. Despite their identical gene’s and near-identical timing, their views on being a Mum don’t always align, providing a base for each episode.

Speaking on the launch of the podcast, Kate Taeuber said, “Motherhood is lonely. I was the first out of my sisters and friends to have a baby and it’s tough when you’re the only one in the trenches. That’s why we created this podcast. It’s all about connecting with other mums and creating a supportive community.”

Sophie Taeuber said, “After all becoming mums within the space of a year, it felt inevitable that motherhood would become part of the conversation on the podcast.”

Amy Taeuber added “We wanted to create the kind of mums’ group you actually want to be a part of. It’s a judgement free zone for honest, funny and very real conversations.”

The Mums’ Group launches off the back of Outspoken’s extraordinary success. With more than 18 million downloads to date, the trio have firmly established themselves as some of Australia’s most influential voices in pop culture and media commentary.

The show is proudly launching in partnership with Mini + Me, alongside the debut of its new functional maternal snack, Mama Bites.

ARN Head of Digital Audio Corey Layton said, “At iHeart, we’re passionate about joining forces with podcast creators who are constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity. The Outspoken team is a brilliant example of how our partners are not only producing fresh, innovative content, but are finding new ways to connect and engage with audiences across Australia.”

From pregnancy and postpartum to the chaos, the laughs and everything in between, The Mums’ Group is about connection, community and knowing you’re not the only one figuring it out as you go. It’s the mums’ group you actually want to be part of.

The first episode of The Mums’ Group launched today, with new episodes to be released every Wednesday. Listen now on the free iHeart app or wherever you get your podcasts.