News

Commercial radio reaches highest audience numbers in a decade

More people are listening to commercial radio than ever before, with 74.6% of listeners tuning in – the highest figure since 2014.

According to the latest GfK Survey 5, 2024, commercial radio now reaches 12.3 million weekly listeners, who spend an average of 12 hours and 51 minutes with their favourite stations.

Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA) CEO Lizzie Young said radio’s capacity to seamlessly connect with listeners anytime and anywhere is unmatched.

“Our commitment to delivering compelling, reliable content ensures Australians always have access to the programs they love, right at their fingertips,” Young said.

Among the 25-54 age group, commercial radio saw a 3.1% year-on- year (YOY) increase, adding 181,000 listeners to surpass 6 million weekly.

Breakfast shows remain popular amongst Australians, reaching over 8.8 million listeners weekly, at an average of 3 hours and 37 minutes.

The number of in-car listeners has grown by 4.8% YOY, with over 10 million people tuning in weekly. These listeners spend an average of 5 hours and 26 minutes listening, making it a regular part of their routines.

At home, listeners tune in for an average of 10 hours and 1 minute, while those at work listen for an average of 12 hours and 41 minutes, marking an increase of 2 hours and 9 minutes compared to last year.

Commercial DAB+ only radio stations are also on the rise, attracting an audience of over 2.6 million. Time spent on Commercial DAB+ only stations has increased by 18 minutes to 6 hours and 26 minutes, highlighting the growing popularity of digital radio.

Young said as audio evolves, its importance as a trusted source of news, local information, entertainment, and community connection only grows stronger.

“Our focus remains on enhancing the listener experience and offering advertisers meaningful opportunities to engage with audiences at scale.”

The news comes after Melbourne’s radio wars saw a shake-up with Nova’s Jase & Lauren now the #1 show in the city.

This is a great day for Nova and we’re absolutely over the moon for the Melbourne breakfast team,” Nova’s group program director Brendan Taylor said.

“To hit number one is an incredible result and a wonderful redemption story for Jase, Lauren and Clint. To achieve this just a few months after launching the show is a testament to our hugely talented breakfast team and their connection to Melbourne listeners.”

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