Conroy to loosen rules on local radio stations resources after ownership changes

Local radio stations will be able to more easily cut resources after ownership changes, media minster Stephen Conroy has indicated.

Speaking at the National Radio Conference, Conroy told the industry that he was minded to reduce the protections in the Broadcasting Services Act of 1992.  

The act was created to protect local stations if they changed ownership including through sale or family inheritance.

Conroy said: “I know the commercial radio industry has long desired legislative amendments to these provisions. My Department has, in fact, undertaken a review of these provisions. As a result of the review and discussion with industry, I am shortly bringing forward legislative amendments for Parliament to consider.”