Hot100 proposes switch to FM in Katherine

The ACMA has considering a proposal by Hot100 (8Hot) on 756 AM for a switch to the FM band.

The station is already heard on FM in Darwin, and the proposal would see Katherine listeners also experience Hot100 on FM.

“FM radio provides improved audio quality for listeners in regional areas and can be more cost-effective to operate than AM radio,” said ACMA chair Nerida O’Loughlin.

“A number of regional commercial radio stations are seeking to convert their services to FM under an industry-led conversion program.

“The ACMA will facilitate a conversion after taking a number of issues into account. These include availability of suitable spectrum and being satisfied that audiences in regional areas do not lose radio services under that proposal.

O’Loughlin also said the ACMA has opened the floor for submissions from the Katherine community, due by February 28.

“We now want to hear from the local Katherine audience their views on the conversion proposal.”

If the proposal is approved, the timing will be up to the broadcaster.

More information about AM-FM conversion is available here.