The first radio ratings survey results for 2025 have been released, revealing a dynamic landscape in Australia’s radio industry. In Sydney, 2GB has reclaimed the top position, while Melbourne sees 3AW surging ahead with impressive gains.
In Sydney, the fierce competition among radio stations continues as 2GB has snatched the lead from Smooth, marking a significant comeback after losing its crown in October 2024. The latest survey, conducted by GfK for Commercial Radio Australia, shows 2GB commanding 11.6% of the overall audience, slightly ahead of Smooth, which dropped 0.8 points to 11.5%. KIIS also fell modestly, landing at 9.9%.
Ray Hadley’s return to the airwaves has bolstered 2GB’s ratings, despite a slight drop of 0.7 points to 14.4% in the breakfast slot. Meanwhile, Smooth’s breakfast show, led by Bogart Torelli, saw a loss of 2.4 points, reflecting the station's overall decline.
In Melbourne, the radio landscape has been equally competitive, with 3AW achieving a remarkable 16.8% share, a gain of 3.4 points from the previous survey. The breakfast team of Ross Stevenson and Russel Howcroft is leading the charge with a staggering 20.6% share, solidifying their dominance in the market.
Gold 104.3 has also made waves, jumping 1.7 points to 12%, overtaking Smooth FM, which has dropped to 9.3%. The Christian O’Connell Breakfast Show has thrived, increasing by 2.8 points to 11.5%, dethroning Nova’s Jase and Lauren, who fell to 10.1%.
Brisbane’s radio scene remains stable, with B105 continuing to dominate despite a slight drop of 0.9% to a 14.1% share. The breakfast trio of Stav, Abby, and Matt leads the pack, with a notable 1.9% advantage over Triple M’s breakfast team.
In Adelaide, Triple M shows strength, leading the city with a 1.6% margin over MIX102.3. The station has made significant gains across various timeslots, solidifying its position as a favorite among listeners.
Meanwhile, in Perth, Nova has completely trampled 96FM, which now sits 1.7% behind after a significant climb in ratings. Nova’s Nathan, Nat, and Shaun have captured 19.8% of the breakfast market, making it the most successful FM breakfast show in the country.
The survey period, which ran from January 19 to March 1, 2025, coincided with the summer cricket season and the inauguration of President Trump in America. This timing has proven beneficial for many talk stations, especially those covering international news.
Commercial radio now reaches a total audience of 12.5 million Australians, with in-car listening increasing by 6.5% year on year. Over 3.1 million Australians are tuning in via streaming, highlighting the evolving landscape of radio consumption.
As the ratings race heats up, radio stations are adapting their strategies to retain listeners and attract new ones. The competition is fierce, and with federal elections on the horizon, listeners can expect a surge in content and local programming.
In summary, the first radio ratings survey of 2025 has showcased a vibrant and competitive market, with stations like 2GB and 3AW leading the charge. As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics shift and which stations can maintain or improve their standings.
