ARN has revealed its 2026 content strategy at its upfront event, introducing two national networks, KIIS and GOLD.
"In 2026, ARN will deliver true national scale across two of the most recognisable media brands in the country," said Lauren Joyce, chief audience and content officer at ARN.
"Through KIIS and GOLD, advertisers can access cohesive national campaigns, premium content, and storytelling that spans every platform – all built on the power of connection."
In 2026, GOLD will unite audiences across Australia under one brand, creating a single destination.
Sydney and Melbourne remain home to market leaders GOLD101.7 and GOLD104.3.
Perth's 96FM becomes GOLD96FM, with Lisa Shaw and Russell Clarke live and local each morning.
Adelaide's Cruise1323 evolves into GOLD1323, with refreshed programming designed to attract a younger, highly engaged audience.
New GOLD DAB+ stations will launch in Brisbane and Adelaide, completing the network's national footprint.
The network will feature two marquee shows: The Christian O'Connell Show (breakfast), now broadcasting across all five metro markets; and Jonesy & Amanda (drive), delivering on the drive home.
Every market will continue to feature local news, sport, traffic and weather.
"This is a landmark moment for GOLD," said Joyce.
"It's about giving audiences a consistent listening experience wherever they are, while still keeping that local flavour they love."
In 2026, KIIS becomes a five-city entertainment network. Building on KIIS Sydney and KIIS Melbourne, Adelaide's Mix102.3 will rebrand as KIIS 102.3, with Ben & Liam returning home for a breakfast show.
Brisbane's KIIS 97.3 welcomes Craig 'Lowie' Lowe from LA to lead breakfast.
A brand-new KIIS DAB+ station launches in Perth, bringing Kyle & Jackie O's show to a new audience.
Network highlights include: The Smallzy Show at 3pm and 7pm daily, live and on demand via iHeart; Will & Woody returning for national drive, bringing even more energy and chaos; and Kyle & Jackie O's iconic "You Get A..." moments becoming monthly live spectacles with live audiences, giveaways and star guests.
Beyond broadcast, the KIIS experience expands visually, with purpose-built sets designed for video and social content, extending the network's presence across every platform.
Sub-brands will continue to grow, including KIIS Dance, KIIS Australia, and the launch of KIIS X on DAB+ and digital, a high-energy channel where the hottest hits and rising artists collide.
"KIIS is pure entertainment," said Joyce.
"It's fun, fast, and everywhere our audiences are – on air, online and in person."
With KIIS and GOLD now fully national, ARN offers advertisers a unified platform to reach Australians at scale.
"Our 2026 strategy is about more than just radio,” said Joyce. “It's about delivering entertainment through star talent and creative ideas that deliver unforgettable experiences for audiences and results for our commercial partners."
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