Credit: Eric Nopanen via Unsplash
Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA) is urging the government to introduce legislation to guarantee radio prominence.
The industry body warns that millions of Australians risk losing easy access to local radio in cars and on smart speaker devices.
“Australia’s relationship with cars and radio is unique,” said Lizzie Young, CEO of CRA.
“Yet, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to access radio in new cars that prioritise global streaming services.
“We drive long distances, live in dispersed communities, and rely on radio not just for entertainment, but for trusted news, connection, and vital information in times of emergency.
“Now is the time for urgent legislative action to ensure the medium of radio – with its central place in the driving experience – remains free and easily accessible for all Australians.”
CRA has relaunched its unified consumer platform, RadioApp, following an upgrade aimed at enhancing the user experience.
The entire radio sector is now pushing for one-button access to Australian radio in all cars, guaranteed availability and discoverability on smart speakers, and reliable voice access via digital assistants.
Radio remains the most reliable source of emergency information, as seen during Cyclone Alfred and the 2019–2020 bushfires, when Australians turned to it for vital updates while mobile networks and power grids failed.
“Radio shouldn’t need mobile data, Wi-Fi, or power to be accessible, it should be easily available when Australians need it most,” Young said.
“The government must act now to protect a medium that 15 million Australians rely on every week.”
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