Commercial radio listening up 54 minutes per week: CRA

As the industry prepares to mark 100 years of commercial radio, the latest GfK survey results are cause for celebration.

That’s according to Commercial Radio and Audio (CRA).

The industry body says GfK Survey 4 shows people spent 54 minutes more time listening each week than in 2022.

CRA says the average person aged 10+ listened for 13 hours and 25 minutes per week, with younger people tuning in for longer and weekend listening also increasing.

It notes that nearly 88% of people aged 10-24 listen to commercial radio each week, for an average of 10 hours and 15 minutes – an increase of 1 hour and 39 minutes compared to a year ago.

CRA’s CEO Ford Ennals says the results are confirmation of radio’s continuing value to the community.

“Commercial radio is preparing to celebrate 100 years on air in Australia this year and we want to thank our listeners for their loyalty and for tuning in every day.  Radio was the original live social medium, inspiring talk and connection, and these results demonstrate its timeless appeal across all age groups.”

“Breakfast continues to be the powerhouse but it’s great to see audiences reaching all-time highs for afternoons as well as for listening at work.”

CRA says the number of listeners streaming commercial radio each week grew to 3.29 million, up 122,000 since the last survey.

Streaming data was released for the first time with the launch of the new GfK Radio 360 hybrid survey system for Survey 3, 2023.

The commercial radio industry will celebrate 100 years of radio at the Australian Commercial Radio & Audio Awards, which will be held in Sydney on October 14.