Radio advertising in Australia is undergoing a dynamic transformation in 2025, marked by steady audience growth, digital innovation, and a strategic pivot to new formats that enhance listener engagement. The latest insights reveal that commercial radio now reaches an impressive 12.5 million Australians weekly, underscoring its enduring appeal as a powerful advertising medium.
One of the most significant recent developments is the permanent cancellation of the Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs), a key industry event that celebrated excellence for over three decades. The decision by Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA) reflects shifting priorities toward digital strategy, regulatory advocacy, and mental health initiatives within the sector. While the awards’ absence marks the end of an era, CRA’s focus on innovation promises fresh growth avenues.
Digital audio is a standout area, with streaming platforms and podcasts driving audience expansion. Approximately one in three Australians aged 25-54 now stream radio weekly, a 6.5% increase from last year. This shift to digital complements traditional broadcast, maintaining radio’s position as the top choice for in-car audio for 84% of Australian drivers — a critical time for advertiser reach.
CRA’s initiatives such as “Sound Start” for developing new talent, upgraded Radio App features, and “The Power of Audio” campaign aim to bolster radio’s relevance in an increasingly digital landscape. These efforts align with audience trends showing considerable podcast consumption and increasing smart speaker ownership, both boosting interactive advertising potential.
Despite challenges in regional markets and legal pressures, Radio Ads unique ability to deliver targeted, scalable, and trusted messaging ensures it remains central to Australian advertisers’ media plans. The blend of traditional strength and digital evolution positions radio advertising for continued success well into the future.