Community Radio Network welcomes 6 new programs in 2026

The Community Broadcasting Association of Australia’s Community Radio Network (CRN) will soon add six new programs to its national grid, following a call-out for submissions from stations across the country late last year.

The new additions showcase the diversity, creativity and local expertise of community broadcasters, with music, science, culture, politics and storytelling programs now set to reach audiences nationwide through the CRN.

All programs will be available to CRN subscribers, expanding the reach of locally produced content and giving stations access to high-quality shows created by the sector, for the sector.

Listeners who want to check out the new programs can also tune in to the stations behind them using the Community Radio Plus app.

Below is a snapshot of the new shows joining the grid and a word from their hosts:

Salt Peanuts – Seymour FM

Hosted by DonskiBeat, Salt Peanuts explores jazz in all its forms, from classic recordings to contemporary and experimental sounds.

Donskibeat said joining the CRN will help introduce new artists to a wider audience.

“I’m excited about being part of a network that amplifies diverse voices and ideas and connect with a larger dialogue creating meaningful conversations and a sense of belonging for all involved.”

The Sound of Now – JOY 94.9

Hosted by Triana Butler and Alana Rosso (main photo), this weekly program highlights new Australian music, with a strong focus on emerging and LGBTQIA+ artists.

Triana said community radio has always been a space for authenticity and expression.

“Throughout my career, radio has been the perfect space to consciously practice being the version of myself that I want to be.”

The First Australian Music Hour – Main FM

Presented by Steve Norwood, this program showcases music by First Nations artists, from well-known performers to emerging voices from remote communities.

Norwood said the show reflects the cultural importance of music in storytelling.

“I think music is a great vehicle for reviving and preserving Australian indigenous languages.”

Science Queeries – JOY 94.9

Hosted by Dr Cat, Science Queeries brings science to the airwaves with humour, curiosity and a strong LGBTQIA+ perspective, covering everything from space to artificial intelligence.

Dr Cat said the move to CRN will help reach new audiences across the country.

“Community radio is all about sharing stories and perspectives that don’t always get mainstream airtime, and I love that I can bring queer, curious, pun-filled science to listeners right across the country.”

The Tuckshop – 2SER

Music journalists Mick Radojkovic and Jules LeFevre host The Tuckshop, a program dedicated to new Australian music, featuring interviews and fresh releases from across the country.

LeFevre said the show reflects the passion that drives community broadcasting.

“Everyone deeply cares about what they’re working on… In a city as big and chaotic as Sydney, 2SER still feels like a genuine community station.”

Radio Reversal – 4ZZZ

Radio Reversal brings together interviews, research and discussion exploring politics, culture and social change.

The team said the national platform will help share conversations more widely.

“We feel very lucky to have the kinds of conversations that we get to have on the radio each week, and we want to share them with as many people as possible.”

Also joining the grid:

Two additional short-form programs will also be available on the CRN:

From Pillar to Post – hosted by CBAA political reporter Noah Secomb, exploring politics and community issues.

AFL Match Highlights – produced by the National Indigenous Radio Service (NIRS), bringing weekly highlights from the AFL season.