Over summer, community broadcasters around the country aired a coordinated series of promos for Community Radio Plus to boost listener awareness and encourage app usage for each stations’ audiences. This has been the third year in a row that we’ve pushed these promos, to remind listeners that they can take your stations with them wherever they are during their summer breaks.  

Stations were invited to play the professionally produced promos at least 21 times per week. A number of stations created their own unique promos, including 88.3 Southern FM and 4CRB.  

135 stations played more than 44k promos during the period – a big lift from the 20k plays the previous summer. The average number of plays per station also increased from 214 to 310. 

Campaign data showed encouraging listening behaviour across the network. Average listening time increased from 15.9 minutes to 16.6 minutes, suggesting listeners who tuned in through the app stayed connected for longer. 

While summer listening patterns tend to shift as audiences travel and change routines, the data shows positive signs at the station level. Stations that promoted the campaign were more likely to see growth in their listening metrics, with: 

• 43% of promoted stations recording listener growth, compared with 38% of non-promoted stations 

• 48% of promoted stations recording session growth, compared with 42% of non-promoted stations 

These results suggest that campaign promotion helped more stations grow their digital audiences, even during a season when overall listening typically fluctuates or decreases.  

Smaller stations were particularly well represented. 88.3 Southern FM topped the chart with 3,572 promo plays. KeppelFM also got involved, airing 1,835 promos.  

And 2MIA and 2DRY FM ended up winning the random prize draw of a $250 JB Hi-FI gift voucher!  

Thanks to everyone who took part! 

The Community Radio Plus app gives listeners a simple, central way to tune in to your station, wherever they might be. With audiences increasingly turning to digital platforms, the app helps you remain visible, accessible and relevant. 

CBAA is pleased to announce a new partnership with GiveNow, Australia’s first and most experienced all-in-one fundraising platform. The partnership gives community radio stations access to powerful fundraising tools designed specifically for grassroots not-for-profits.

Since 2001, GiveNow has helped more than 6,000 organisations raise over $240 million, supporting causes across Australia with simple, reliable and secure fundraising technology.

For community broadcasters, the platform provides a flexible way to manage donations, memberships and fundraising campaigns in one place.

You can find testimonials and other useful information about GiveNow here.

A complete fundraising toolkit for stations

GiveNow supports multiple ways for stations to raise funds and engage supporters, including:

• Donations (one-off and regular giving)
• Peer-to-peer fundraising campaigns
• Membership management
• Event ticketing
• Partnerships and sponsorship fundraising
• Grant funding search tools

The platform also generates automatic donation receipts and end-of-financial-year summaries for donors, while stations receive clear donation reports and insights to help track supporter engagement.

Stations can easily integrate GiveNow with their online presence by embedding donation forms directly on their website or by linking to a GiveNow campaign page for radiothons, membership drives or fundraising appeals.

Local, secure and designed for Australian not-for-profits

Unlike many global fundraising platforms, GiveNow is 100% Australian-based, with local staff and secure local data storage.

The platform is also one of the most affordable options available, with:

• Low platform fees
• No subscription charges
• No hidden extras
• No lock-in contracts

Stations can begin using GiveNow with the free tier and upgrade at any time as their fundraising needs grow.

Exclusive benefits for CBAA members

CBAA members receive additional benefits when signing up for GiveNow.

Stations that enter the partner code CBAA when creating their account will receive:

• 20% off the Pro Plan for 24 months
• Priority support from the GiveNow team
• Tailored onboarding support

The Pro Plan may be particularly valuable for stations that run events, manage memberships, or want deeper insights into supporter engagement.

Plan Comparison

How to access the CBAA member offer

Getting started is simple:

1. Register for a free account on the GiveNow website
2. Enter partner code CBAA on the sign-up form
3. Your Pro Plan discount will apply when your campaigns go live

Stations can start with the free tier and upgrade whenever they are ready.

Learn more at the CBAA and GiveNow interactive workshop

CBAA and GiveNow will host a free interactive workshop for community broadcasters to explore how stations can use the platform to grow their fundraising and supporter engagement.

Workshop details

• Date: Thursday 12 March
• Time: 3:00 PM AEDT

Register here:
https://cbaa-org-au.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WMX6A8OPST2f97JLFdeZbA#/registration

The session will include a demonstration of the platform, examples of how stations are using GiveNow, and an opportunity to ask questions.

Here to support you

If you would like help choosing the right plan for your station or integrating GiveNow with your website, the CBAA Online Services team is here to assist.

Email: onlineservices@cbaa.org.au

The SBS Board and Executive have welcomed the appointment of Dr Nicholas Pappas AM as Chair of the SBS Board, following the announcement today by the Minister for Communications and Sport, The Hon Anika Wells MP. Dr Pappas AM has served as a Non-Executive Director of the SBS Board since December 2024.

Dr Pappas is a Non-Executive Director and lawyer serving on a number of Boards, including as Chair of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, as President Emeritus of The Hellenic Initiative Australia, and as a Non-Executive Director of the Steve Waugh Foundation, Australia, and Melbourne’s Hellenic Museum. His previous roles include serving as former President and Board member of the Powerhouse Museum, and Chair of the Bank of Sydney.

SBS also wishes to recognise and thank Deputy Chair Christine Zeitz for her service and commitment as Acting Chair since July 2025.

Dr Pappas’ appointment commenced on 5 March 2026. The SBS Board of Directors consists of Chair Dr Nicholas Pappas AM, Deputy Chair Christine Zeitz, and Non-Executive Directors Vic Alhadeff OAM, Aaron Fa’Aoso, Dr Andrew Lu AM, Katrina Rathie, Cassandra Wilkinson OAM, and SBS Acting Managing Director, Jane Palfreyman.

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