The Australian radio industry is urging swift action to ensure smart technology does not impede Australians' easy access to local radio content.

Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA), the peak industry body representing commercial radio broadcasters across Australia, welcomed the Senate Environment and Communications Legislation Committee's recommendation to prioritise radio prominence on devices such as smart speakers.

The recommendation follows an inquiry into the Communications Legislation Amendment (Prominence and Anti-siphoning) Bill 2023, which, according to CRA, missed the opportunity to include radio prominence. The industry body is now seeking reassurance that connected cars will also be included in any consultation.

"The opportunity to include radio prominence in the Bill has been missed, and any delay to reform puts further pressure on a crucial part of our media landscape," said CRA Chairman and ARN Chief Executive, Ciaran Davis. "Now is the time to secure free, reliable, and accessible radio for all Australians - therefore this consultation must be completed before the end of the year."

CRA Chief Executive Ford Ennals echoed highlighted the importance of easy and reliable access to radio for all Australians as smart devices are increasingly incorporated into their everyday lives. "It is crucial that global tech giants aren't allowed to gatekeep our audio choices," Ennals said.

Ennals pointed out that 80% of Australians listen to radio in the car and 30% of households use smart speakers. "If they can't access local radio then they miss out on local news, entertainment, and potentially life-saving information in emergency situations," he said. "This recommendation must be the beginning of much-needed reform."