In a recorded address to the CBAA Conference, Communications Minister Mitch Fifield recognised the “thousands of dedicated volunteers across the country” who work in the community radio sector.

“The Turnbull government is a very strong supporter of the community broadcasting sector… We have increased investment in community radio by $6.1 million over the next two years. This additional support os recognition of the important work community broadcasters do across Australia.

“You play a big role in the broadcasting landscape and help build skills for the future of the industry.”

CBAA President Philip Randall said 5.3 million people every week are tuning in to community radio stations. “It’s an amazing accomplishment for a not for profit sector… people come together to make this sector successful… In such a time of media changes there is a more important role for community broadcasters than ever before.”

Opening the conference Shaun Davies gave a welcome to country, introducing delegates to the indigenous local language of the region. Shaun has a regular segment on ABC Radio Gold Coast where he discusses words and tells the stories of those words to listeners.
 

Also during the opening session of the conference, Broadcast Australia’s Steve Farrugia revealed BA’s new pro-bono activity, which will give the community broadcasting sector two free days per month of technical transmission consultancy.