The Community Broadcasting Sector Sustainability Review has been received and welcomed by the Albanese Government. The review, conducted over two phases starting in March 2023, provides findings and recommendations to government and industry to support the sector into the future.
An election commitment, the Sustainability Review formed part of the Government’s efforts to work with the sector to identify a sustainable funding basis. The two phases commenced with an independent evaluation of the Government’s Community Broadcasting Program (CBP) followed by the release of a discussion paper in June 2024 and extensive public consultation with industry and sector peak bodies.
The report outlines four recommendations for Government consideration across the three priority areas of CBP funding:
- Structure and outcomes
- Legislative and regulatory changes
- First Nations funding and licensing.
The review found some community broadcasters were reliant on CBP funding due to decreased revenue and increased operational costs. The report identified opportunities to make the program more effective through reconsideration of funding priorities, processes and outcomes.
There were also potential reforms to support the sector to modernise operations, as well as it outlining specific issues and potential solutions in relation to the First Nations broadcasting and media sector.
A further three recommendations were directed at industry, showing the scope of shared responsibility of support from government, funding bodies, sector peak bodies as well as community broadcasters.
Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP said:
“Community broadcasting is at the heart of local communities, providing millions of Australians with localised and diverse news, information and entertainment. It’s vital to a strong and healthy media landscape.
That’s why we committed to undertaking this review, working closely with industry to identify the best way forward to ensure the community broadcasting sector is sustainable into the future.
We will now consider the report findings as we continue to support community broadcasting and First Nations media, delivering $27 million in additional funding over the next three years.”
This $27 million investment comprises $15 million through the CBP, including $3 million to support community television, and $12 million for the Indigenous Broadcasting and Media Program.
The Government will now consider the report and work with stakeholders to progress the findings.
The Community Broadcasting Sector Sustainability Review report can be found here: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/media-industry-programs/community-broadcasting-program
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said:
“The First Nations broadcasting and media sector is a vital community resource, promoting connection to culture and language and supporting access to important information and services.
“We will closely consider the report’s recommendations with a view to ensuring First Nations journalists, broadcasters and media get the support they need – now and in the years to come.
“These efforts build on our $12 million investment through the Indigenous Broadcasting and Media Program, which recognises and supports the important work of First Nations media.”
Pictured: The Hon Michelle Rowland MP at the launch of Roadmap 2033, a ten-year plan for community broadcasters, alongside CBAA CEO Jon Bisset.