Podcasting powerhouses crowned at 2024 ACRAs

Podcasting is rewriting the rules of modern media … and we’ve only just begun to scratch the surface of what’s possible.

That’s according to Commercial Radio & Audio’s (CRA) Chief Executive Officer Lizzie Young, who says “The 2024 ACRA Awards aren’t just about honouring great work; they’re about celebrating the future of audio.”

“Podcasts are shaping how we consume content.”

Hannah’s Story (9Podcasts, Nine Radio) took home Podcast of the Year.

Brittany Hockley (main photo) and Laura Byrne of Life Uncut (ARN/iHeart) were awarded Podcast Host(s) of the Year, cementing their position as queens of the society and culture genre.

Joey Watson (LiSTNR, SCA) was recognised as Best New Talent – Podcast.

Recent data from the Australian Podcast Bi-Annual Report showed an increase of almost 9%  in monthly podcast listeners in 2024. Genres like true crime, society and culture, and comedy lead the pack, while health and fitness and family content are seeing a surge as audiences diversify their listening habits.

“Podcasting is bridging generations and connecting with people in ways that traditional media simply cannot,” says Young.

“It’s giving creators a platform to tell stories that resonate, and (the ACRA) winners are proof of the boundless potential of this medium.”

Key 2024 ACRA Awards Podcast and Digital Award Winners:

• Podcast of the Year: Hannah’s Story, 9Podcasts, VIC – Jess Lodge, Melissa Downes, Adam Buncher
• Podcast Host(s) of the Year: Brittany Hockley & Laura Byrne, Life Uncut, ARN/iHeart, Sydney, NSW
• Best New Talent – Podcast: Joey Watson, LiSTNR, Sydney, NSW
• Most Innovative DAB Format: iHeartTrivia, iHeartRadio Team, NSW
• Best Podcast Producer: Jess Lodge, Hannah’s Story, 9Podcasts, Brisbane, QLD
• Best Podcast by a Radio Show: The Reporter True Stories, 6PR, Perth, WA, Nine Radio