ACRAs Cancelled: Australian radio awards axed as costs force industry rethink
CRA cites cost concerns and long-term sustainability; resources redirected to industry initiatives and regulatory work; networks will recognize achievements in-house
The Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs) have been axed for good, a decision announced by Commercial Radio and Audio (CRA) due to cost concerns and a shift to long-term sustainability. CRA chief executive Lizzie Young said the change places the industry on a stronger footing for the future and noted that resources would be redirected to initiatives such as Sound Start, CRA Audio ID and HEARD, and to regulatory work including Radio Prominence, where the industry can have the greatest impact on its future. She also underscored that individual networks will continue to recognize the work of their teams through in-house programs.
The decision followed an April announcement that the 2025 ACRA Awards would not proceed, despite hopes that the awards would return the following year.
Young stressed that moving ahead without the awards would allow a clearer focus on the longer-term strategy. She expressed a belief in radio's bright and exciting future in Australia and said the change would help build that future. The organisation reiterated that resources would be redirected into Sound Start, CRA Audio ID and HEARD, as well as regulatory matters such as Radio Prominence, where it argues the industry can have the greatest impact on its trajectory. More to come.