ACRAs Cancelled Permanently as CRA Shifts Focus to Industry Initiatives

The Australian Commercial Radio Awards, known as the ACRAs, have been cancelled permanently, marking a pivotal shift in the industry’s approach to recognizing achievement. Commercial Radio and Audio (CRA) CEO Lizzie Young said the decision to end the awards night was driven by cost concerns and a renewed focus on long-term sustainability for the country’s radio sector.

Young described the move as prudent, noting that it allows the industry to consolidate resources toward programs and regulatory efforts with a broader, lasting impact. "Our focus on long-term sustainability across the industry needs to be our number one priority," she said, framing the decision as a strategic realignment rather than a retreat from industry recognition.

Young said the decision was not taken lightly. "After careful consideration in consultation with our Board and Members, we’re directing our resources into initiatives like Sound Start, CRA Audio ID and HEARD, and regulatory matters such as Radio Prominence where we can have the greatest impact supporting our industry’s future," she said. "Individual networks continue to celebrate the amazing work being done across our industry through their own recognition programs."

Industry officials had hoped for a revival in 2026 after 2025’s awards were initially canceled in April. The latest decision ends those hopes for the foreseeable future, leaving the industry to reassess how excellence will be acknowledged in the radio sector going forward.

Young’s statement outlined where the industry’s resources would be redirected: toward initiatives meant to support emerging talent and regulatory advocacy, including Sound Start, CRA Audio ID and HEARD, as well as work on Radio Prominence. "Our focus on long-term sustainability across the industry needs to be our number one priority," she said.

Even with the cancellation, networks will continue to recognize excellence through internal awards and their own initiatives. The move, described by some observers as a strategic realignment, highlights a broader industry effort to balance prestige events with sustainable investment.

Culture and entertainment observers will monitor the long-term effects on talent recognition and the overall awards ecosystem in Australian radio. The decision comes as media industries worldwide grapple with cost pressures and shifting audience dynamics.