New Monash-led report proves sector is the unsung hero keeping grassroots talent alive against streaming giants.
Australia’s community radio stations are putting in serious work for local music, delivering an estimated $153 million in annual value to the industry while blasting more than double the local content of commercial networks.
A groundbreaking new report, Community Radio and Australian Music: Building the music media ecosystem, has crunched the numbers for the first time, shining a light on the sector’s massive economic, social and cultural impact.
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Led by Associate Professor Shane Homan from Monash University, the research highlights how community broadcasters are stepping up as vital champions for emerging Australian artists at a time when global algorithms continue to sideline homegrown talent.
The report, using Social Return on Investment methodology, drew on a huge national survey of nearly 10,000 people, airplay data, and interviews with artists, listeners and station crews.
Results show community radio isn’t just playing tracks — it’s driving real action. In 2023, thousands of listeners followed up airplay by searching artists on Spotify, sharing tracks, and buying merch, music or gig tickets.
Homan described the stations as “the vital infrastructure holding up the broader Australian music industries,” filling a glaring gap left by commercial and streaming platforms.
Notably, over a million Australians say community radio is the only place playing the local music they actually want to hear.
The sector also logs massive volunteer hours — equivalent to serious industry training — while First Nations stations foster deep cultural connection, with 60% of their listeners saying the music enriches their experience.
Launched today at the Victorian Music Development Office’s Music Data and Insights Summit, the ARC-funded study (a collaboration between Monash, Griffith, Creative Australia, CBAA and others) makes it clear: community radio remains the lifeblood of Australian music, nurturing artists, audiences and the next generation of music media workers.
In a streaming-dominated landscape, these stations are the grassroots connection keeping the scene breathing. The numbers don’t lie — it’s time the industry properly recognises it.
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