Communications Minister Michelle Rowland acknowledged the commercial radio industry’s upcoming 100th birthday with a speech at Parliament House recalling the launch of 2WS in Seven Hills and the continued advocacy and up to date information that radio provides its communities.
Rowland spoke of her childhood growing up in Western Sydney saying:
“I’ll never forget the day that 2WS officially launched in Leabons Lane in Seven Hills. It was the first time that we felt recognised as a community by the media. Here were local voices telling the stories that mattered to us. We were being given at a platform at a time when Western Sydney stories weren’t always reflected in the news of the day coming from the CBD.
And now look how far our humble 2WS has come!”
She mentioned a recent visit to Darwin’s MIX 104.9 where she caught up with morning presenter Katie Woolf:
“Katie pointed out issues with communications outage issues in Dundee, and the serious safety concerns this was causing locals, business owners and tourists visiting the area.
Katie had her finger on the pulse, pushing an issue that matters – directly with me as the responsible Minister, in order to get the best outcomes for that community.
This kind of advocacy is something I’m seeing and hearing as I visit commercial radio stations right across the country – and it’s a great credit to your industry.”
Rowland spoke of how the industry has developed and changed:
“Radio is the great adapter – in large part because of its two-way nature and its ability to form personal connections with listeners in a way other forms of communications simply can’t.
Today, we have myriad listening options thanks to the modernisation and innovation of the commercial radio industry.
Through a variety of apps, Australians are now spoiled for choice and able to stream their favourite show from wherever they are. Tech advancements such as Smart speakers and global radio apps have helped create the evolution of radio here in Australia. And I am sure that no matter the next development, commercial radio will be at the cutting edge of innovation.”
And her commitment to access and engagement in her role as Communications Minister:
“At the heart of our media reform agenda is the need to level the playing field for industry, and support the interests of citizens and consumers. To that end, I remain committed to considering the prominence of Australian radio services – similar to our work we are progressing to legislate a prominence framework for connected televisions in Australia.”
You can read the full transcript of the speech here.