The Turnbull Government is supporting the vital role the community radio sector plays in enhancing the diversity of Australia’s media and broadcasting sector with new funding announced today.
Federal Member for Forde Bert van Manen MP said the Turnbull Government announced $6.1 million over two years to support the rollout of digital radio services and one-off spectrum reorganisation costs for analogue radio services.
“The Government’s investment is in addition to the $15 million per annum already provided through the Community Broadcasting Program,” Mr van Manen said.
“The new funding will be focussed on the roll-out of digital radio into regional areas and will provide some additional investment to support infrastructure needs of community stations.”
The government’s funding complements other funding available to the sector, and the many thousands of hours that volunteers across the country provide in support of their local stations.
“We believe community radio is an important voice,” Mr van Manen said.
“There are 455 community radio stations transmitting to more than five million people each week.
“That makes community radio Australia’s largest independent media sector.
“I am very proud to announce this great investment for our local community.”
More information on community radio is available at: www.communications.gov.au/what-we-do/radio/community-radio