Joint statement — Community Broadcasting Association of Australia and Disability Media Australia
The Community Broadcasting Association of Australia and Disability Media Australia have acknowledged Vision Australia Radio’s decision to cease AM broadcasting in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth from 1 July 2026.
Vision Australia Radio has been in discussion with CBAA on this transition for some time. Both organisations recognise the decision as necessary to reduce operating costs and safeguard the long-term viability of the service — without any impact on Vision Australia Radio’s commitment to locally produced content relevant to the blind and low vision community and the wider disability community in each market.
VA Radio has operated DAB+ services in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth for more than 16 years, with Darwin added more recently. The service is not being withdrawn — it continues on DAB+ and online streaming, including via the Community Radio Plus app. DAB+ delivers a markedly better listening experience than AM — clearer audio, more reliable reception, and no interference. What changes is the cost base.
Vision Australia Radio serves Australians who are blind, have low vision, or have other print disabilities. For many listeners it is not a discretionary service — it is their primary means of accessing news, information, and community connection. The network reaches around 500,000 listeners a month, supported by dedicated volunteers and staff in each market.
Change like this is never easy — for staff, volunteers, and listeners who have been part of the AM service for years. But the move to a digital-only model means these essential services can continue. That is the right outcome.
Both organisations acknowledge that AM listeners will face disruption and welcome Vision Australia Radio’s commitment to supporting listeners through the transition, recognising that moving to a new way of listening will not be straightforward for everyone.
Accessible communication for all Australians with disability is central to DMA’s mission and an increasingly important part of what the community broadcasting sector delivers. Vision Australia Radio is one example of why that matters.
Jon Bisset,
CEO of CBAA and DMA