CRA conference underway

Staff Writer

The Australian radio industry has gathered for the 2012 National Radio Conference at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Opening the proceedings was CEO of Commercial Radio Australia, Joan Warner.

Through the day, there are plenty of guest speakers, including Malcolm Turnbull, who spoke this morning, and Sharon Osbourne who will deliver the keynote address.

Cathy O'Connor has also just finished speaking and we have published some of her comments below.

"A record number of 1,320 are attending the ACRA's tomorrow night, twice more than when I first started," said Warner. "Then afterwards a CRA after party where there'll be "lots of drinking of soft drinks and cups of tea".

 We'll keep you up to date through the day.

The Chair of CRA Cathy O'Connor opened the conference, following Malcolm Turnbull, saying;

"There are economic indicators that suggest it's been tough. But more broadly there is a lot we can be proud of."

"(We are) growing audiences, creating world class content, and growing into other platforms. We are working together for the greater good"

Speaking of radio's share of the advertising dollar, O'Connor said;

"We are holding onto 7-8%, but we deserve more. Price Waterhouse predict 8% growth, and radio will enjoy a higher share from that"

"Radio is the biggest driver of music sales in the country….radio is what makes a performer famous."

O'Connor spoke about the year ahead for CRA;

"CRA in the year ahead have an increased focus to ensure we have the right support behind our marketing spend. We will spend more next year to send a fantastic message out to trade. And we will sell strategically with insights and good data."

One of the more controversial areas for the industry has been audience measurement, and O'Connor spoke about the tender that is out for future measurement, and discussed measurement online, electronic data devices, apps for tablets and mobile phones. However she was supportive of the present diary system;

"The diary system has improved over the years. It is robust."

Looking to the future, she commented;

"It is good to see Malcolm (Turnbull) is "pro freedom", it is adaptability that will keep our industry strong, our continued openness to evolve. The year ahead will be a tough one, but I believe radio will outperform other media".

 

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