Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA) has welcomed the Albanese Government’s decision to extend the suspension of the Commercial Broadcasting Tax (CBT) for a further two years as part of the forthcoming Federal Budget, but with further action required to to ensure the sustainability of commercial radio.

Lizzie Young, the CEO of CRA (pictured), said:

“We are pleased the Government recognises the need to support the long-term sustainability of Australia’s local media industry. A two-year CBT suspension is a step in the right direction for our sector, which carries regulatory burdens our global competitors do not face. But the archaic radio-specific rules that are holding local radio back must be repealed, and the most critical issue for our sector, radio prominence, must be addressed. That is what we are calling on the Government to deliver.”

Commercial radio reaches 15 million Australians weekly, contributes $1 billion annually to GDP, employs more than 6000 people and delivers local news, emergency information and community content Australians rely on. Every advertising dollar stays here.

Young continued:

“If we are serious about protecting Australia’s national media sovereignty and levelling the playing field against global technology platforms – whose impact on local media has been devastating – these further reforms are essential.

“We look forward to continuing to engage with Government on these critical issues and to securing outcomes that give our industry the certainty it needs to deliver what Australians need within their local community – trusted news and emergency information that is free and easy to access.”