Community radio listeners close to 5 million

Research released today shows that 1 in 4 Australians are tuning into community radio each week, and the reason it seems is “local, local, local”.

According to the latest Community Radio National Listener Survey, released by the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia, people are spending an average of 17 hours each week listening to community radio, with the majority of listeners describing community radio services as valuable.

Not surprising, the reason why people are listening is because it provides local programming – local information, local news, local voices, local personalities and local participation.  Other reasons people listen include specialist music and support of local Australian music.

“This latest research reinforces that community radio is hugely valued by Australian listeners as a key pillar in the media landscape, and one which contributes to Australia’s open society, strong democracy and vibrant culture”, commented CBAA Chief Executive Officer Jon Bisset

“The sector continues to provide a high level of local content and a unique range of services and programs. Through these, it contributes to media diversity, promotes social inclusion and provides a diverse range of viewpoints that enrich the social and cultural fabric of Australian society”.

A few of the top line results to come from this latest survey:

  • 54% of community radio listeners are men, 46% are women.
  • More than 50% are aged between 25 and 49 years, with a third aged 55+ years.
  • Across the country, metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas have the same level of listening, and the Northern Territory has the most community radio listeners per capita.
  • A third of people who regularly speak a language other than English in their home listen to community radio

The survey was conducted by McNair Ingenuity Research, and is made up of 10,000 Australians aged over 15 who participated either over the phone or online.

State by state details here.
 

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