Media Release
Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy
Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy
Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Digital Productivity
$12.5 million boost for community radio
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy has announced a $12.5 million boost for community radio broadcasters as part of the 2011-2012 Budget.
Senator Conroy said the funds will be delivered over four years and will be used to establish a new Community Radio Content Development Fund and increase content production in specialist areas.
“The additional funding increases the Gillard Government’s support to the Community Broadcasting Sector to $15.8 million in 2011-12. This is an increase of approximately 25 per cent on the 2010-11 funding levels,” said Senator Conroy.
“The Government’s increased support will enable community broadcasters to provide greater levels of locally produced content, such as news, information announcements, community debates and other emerging special interest content.
“Dedicated funding will also be specifically targeted towards assisting the development of new content for Indigenous, Ethnic and Radio for the Print Handicapped broadcasting in acknowledgement of their special needs.
“Community broadcasters have established a substantial audience reach across metropolitan, regional and remote communities with an estimated audience of 9.4 million Australians listening to community radio on average per month.
“This substantial increase in Government funding will enable community radio broadcasters to respond to the evolving needs of their audiences.
“The Government greatly values the role the community broadcasting sector plays in supporting media diversity and providing communities with a local voice,” Senator Conroy said.
Date: Wednesday 11 May 2011
Contact: Suzie Brady: 0408 258 457
