The CBAA is recognised as the national association representing the interests of community broadcasting licensees. As a member you have the power to influence the lobbying efforts made by the CBAA on your behalf. Such efforts include the migration to digital spectrum, strategies to attract government funding and legislation affecting the activities of community broadcasting licensees. Policy papers concerning these issues are posted on the CBAA website.

Sector representations are made by the CBAA to relevant government and industry bodies such as the Department of Communication, Information Technology and the Arts (DCITA), the Australian Communications & Media Authority (ACMA), copyright agencies (APRA, AMCOS and PPCA), the media (ABC, SBS, FARB, FACTS, ASTRA) and unions (CPSU, MEAA).