Today we celebrate 50 years since the landmark decision of the Whitlam Government to establish community broadcasting in Australia.
In 1974, the Cabinet of the Whitlam Government granted licenses for the three oldest community radio stations: Music Broadcasting Society of NSW (2MBS), Music Broadcasting Society of Victoria (3MBS) and The University of Adelaide (5UV/ Radio Adelaide). The inspiration sparked continuing support from the subsequent Fraser Government which then established the first legislative framework for the community broadcasting sector.
50 years on, community broadcasting continues to play a uniquely pivotal role in connecting, informing and empowering our communities, local voices and celebrating cultural diversity. As we celebrate its 50th anniversary today, we reflect on the collective achievements of our remarkable sector:
- Today the community broadcasting sector has 941 employees and 18,100 volunteers
- More than 500 AM, FM & DAB+ stations and two dedicated television services community broadcasting today reach over 5.19 million people across Australia each week – almost a quarter (24%) of the country’s population
- 74% of broadcasting licensees are based in regional and remote areas
- 62% of regional listeners say their main reason is to tune in is for local information and news
Through the immense diversity of programming, community broadcasting continues to serve and strengthen our social and economic inclusion, cohesion and multiculturalism – supporting us during times of disaster in building community resilience and providing access to trusted, independent news and information. It continues to play an important role in supporting and empowering self-determination of First Nations communities and closing the gap in social and economic outcomes. It has also been a significant and impactful platform for championing Australian musicians, artists and storytellers with 31% of community radio listeners reporting that hearing Australian music is the main reason they tune in.
It’s been a phenomenal first 50 years, with many more ahead of us!
For a vision of the future to come for community broadcasting read Roadmap 2033: a ten-year plan for community broadcasting’s greater impact in every Australian community.
[Photos: Opening day at Radio Adelaide in 1974; Roadmap 2033 Launch – CBF President Ian Hamm, CBF CEO Jo Curtin, Minister for Communications – the Hon. Minister Michelle Rowland MP, CBAA CEO Jon Bisset, CBAA Vice President Peter Rohweder].