fbi.radio launches new fundraising campaign to power up its future

fbi.radio through the ages. Image supplied.

fbi.radio has launched a new EOFY campaign to raise $50,000 for independent radio, emerging artists and Sydney culture

Last year, fbi.radio faced a critical moment. After mounting financial pressure across the independent media sector, the station called on its community for urgent support – and Sydney responded.

Listeners, artists, presenters and supporters rallied behind the station, helping to secure the future of one of Australia’s most influential independent broadcasters.

The station says that support did more than keep fbi.radio on air. It helped power up a stronger, more sustainable future for independent culture in Sydney.

Now, fbi.radio is launching its 2026 End of Financial Year fundraising campaign titled Power Up Independent Radio, with a goal to raise $50,000 by 30 June to continue building a resilient future for independent music, local storytelling and community-led culture.

The campaign arrives as new national research led by Monash and Griffith universities highlights just how vital community radio is to Australia’s music industry. The recent study found the community broadcasting sector contributes more than $153 million annually to Australian music, while playing more than double the amount of Australian music broadcast on commercial radio.

It also comes at a time when 2SER, another iconic Sydney community station, faces an imminent threat due to a lack of funding.

Operating with annual costs exceeding $1 million, fbi.radio continues to rely on a diversified funding model that includes listener donations, philanthropy and values-aligned sponsorship partnerships to remain independent and community-owned.

Following last year’s community support, fbi.radio has spent the past year strengthening its long-term sustainability strategy — expanding recurring donor programs, building philanthropic partnerships and developing new sponsorship opportunities aligned with its mission and editorial independence.

fbi.radio Managing Director Tyson Koh said the campaign represents a turning point for the station and the wider independent media sector:

“Last year proved how deeply people care about independent radio and Sydney culture,” said Koh. “Our community showed up when we needed it most, and that support has helped power up a stronger future for fbi.radio.”

“Community radio doesn’t just play more Australian music – it builds careers, connects communities and shapes the cultural identity of cities like Sydney.”

“This campaign is about making sure independent media continues to exist in a landscape increasingly dominated by algorithms, commercial consolidation and global platforms.”

The campaign aims to grow recurring donor support, increase monthly giving and expand mission-aligned partnerships to secure long-term sustainability for the station and the broader creative ecosystem it supports.

A central feature of the campaign is a month-long broadcast and digital fundraising drive, culminating in a flagship supporter event at Mary’s Underground on 17 June featuring live performances, DJs and community fundraising activations.

Donations made before 30 June are tax-deductible and directly support programming, volunteer training, artist development and independent cultural content across radio and digital platforms.

Donate here.