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Hit Network
Hit Network
Hit Network
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The Hit Network is an Australian commercial radio network owned and operated by Southern Cross Austereo. The network consists of 41 radio stations broadcasting a hot adult contemporary music format, as well as 6 digital radio stations.

Key Information

History

[edit]

The Hit Network was formed in 1986 as the Austereo Network after Austereo, the licensee of Adelaide commercial radio station SAFM, purchased Fox FM in Melbourne. The network grew throughout the late 1980s and the 1990s, acquiring B105 Brisbane, 2Day FM Sydney and PMFM Perth, as well as establishing joint-venture stations in Canberra and Newcastle. The network would later become known as the Today Network, with stations adopting a contemporary hit radio music format.

Following the acquisition of Austereo by Southern Cross Media Group, the company incorporated the regional Hot FM, Sea FM and Star FM networks into the Today Network.

In October 2014, Southern Cross Austereo announced it would relaunch SAFM in Adelaide as Hit 107,[1] with a staggered network-wide relaunch announced in December.[2] On 14 January 2015, the network was relaunched as Today's Hit Network, with the relaunch extending to Canberra in January 2016.[3] Sea FM Hobart was relaunched as Hit100.9 in February,[4] with the remaining network stations adopting the Hit Network branding as part of a national brand consolidation in December.[5]

On 27 July 2020, the Hit Network was relaunched, adopting a new logo and "pop-based" music format in an attempt to target a 30–54 year old audience.[6] In addition, Hit 105 Brisbane and Hit 107 Adelaide reverted to their heritage brands B105 and SAFM respectively. On 20 August 2020, Southern Cross Austereo announced the network would introduce statewide networked breakfast programs in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria, replacing 19 local shows.[7][8]

On 1 December 2020, Mix 94.5 Perth switched affiliation from the Triple M network to the Hit Network, with Hit92.9 relaunching as 92.9 Triple M.[9]

Stations

[edit]

As of 1 January 2025, the Hit Network consists of 41 FM radio stations.

ACT

NSW

QLD

SA

TAS

VIC

WA

Network shows

[edit]

Local shows

[edit]

2Day FM - Sydney

  • The Jimmy & Nath Show with Emma, Weekdays 6 am – 9 am

Fox FM - Melbourne

B105 FM - Brisbane

  • Stav, Abby & Matt, Weekdays 6 am – 9 am

SAFM - Adelaide

  • Emma & Bernie, Weekdays 6 am – 9 am

Hit104.7 - Canberra

  • Wilko & Courts, Weekdays 6 am – 9 am

Hit100.9 - Hobart

  • Dan & Christie, Weekdays 6 am – 9 am

Mix 94.5 - Perth

  • Pete & Kymba with Ben Cousins, Weekdays 6 am – 9 am

Digital radio

[edit]

As of April 2024, the Hit Network broadcasts an additional 6 radio stations on DAB+ digital radio and the LiSTNR app.

Years Station Format Availability History
2018–present RnB Fridays RnB music Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide Formerly known as:
– Urban Hits (2018–2021)
2019–present Dance Hits Electronic dance music Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide
2023–present Oldskool 80s Hits 1980s music Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart Formerly known as:
– Easy 80s Hits [2020–2023]
– Easy Hits Radio (Easy listening music from the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, 2010s) [2016–2020]
– Stardust Radio (Soft pop, jazz standards, beautiful music from the 1950s, 1960s) [2012–2016]
Easy Hits was moved to the LiSNTR internet radio platform.
2020–present Oldskool 90s Hits 1990s music Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart Formerly known as:
– Oldskool Hits Radio (Hot adult contemporary music from the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s) [2016–2020]
– More Digital (Music from the 1980s, 1990s) [2015–2016]
– Loveland Radio (Love songs from the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s) [2012–2015]
2022–present Blender Beats Remixes and Mashups Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth Replaced Buddha Hits [2012-2022] on DAB+
Buddha Hits was moved to the LiSNTR internet radio platform.
2024 - present Easy Hits Easy listening Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide Relaunched on DAB+ replacing LiSTNR Radio

Choose The Hits was a station only broadcast on digital radio and ran between 1 February 2010 and 24 May 2010.[10]

The Hit Network launched Caravan Radio on 24 May 2010. It was a "pop up" Digital Radio station that played the best bits from Hamish & Andy's Caravan of Courage journeys while they toured the United Kingdom on their fourth Caravan of Courage.[11]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Hit Network

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Hit Network is Australia's largest commercial radio network, owned and operated by (SCA), comprising over 40 stations that deliver (CHR) and hot adult contemporary (AC) programming to more than 5.8 million listeners weekly across metropolitan, regional, and digital platforms. Originating from the Austereo Group's expansion in the and , the network underwent a significant in when SCA's Today Network became Today's Hit Network, followed by a major overhaul in 2016 that aligned 50 regional and metropolitan stations under the Hit banner to strengthen national cohesion and audience reach. The network's stations include flagship outlets such as 2DayFM in Sydney, Fox FM in , B105 in , SAFM in , and Mix 94.5 in Perth, alongside regional affiliates like Hit 90.9 in and Hit 93.1 in , with programming emphasizing , celebrity interviews, and lifestyle content tailored to the 18-54 demographic. Key syndicated shows include the national breakfast program Jimmy & Nath, nights with Lucy & Nikki and The Hot Hits with Nic & Loren, hosted by prominent personalities such as Jimmy Smith, Nathan Roye, Lucy Jackson, and Nikki Westcott, which drive engagement through humor, music, and community events. In addition to traditional FM/AM broadcasting, the Hit Network extends its presence through SCA's LiSTNR app, offering on-demand podcasts, live streams, and digital-only channels, while recent innovations include AI-assisted news scripting to enhance efficiency in content delivery. As of November 2025, SCA—parented by Southern Cross Media Group—has had its proposed merger with Seven West Media approved by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on November 13, 2025, subject to further conditions including shareholder approval, potentially integrating Hit Network's audio assets with expanded television and digital media capabilities to form one of Australia's largest media conglomerates.

Overview

Network Description

The Hit Network is an Australian commercial owned and operated by (SCA), comprising 41 stations that broadcast a blend of (CHR) and hot adult contemporary (Hot AC) formats focused on contemporary hit music. This format features a blend of current chart-toppers and recent classics, complemented by entertainment programming such as talk segments, celebrity interviews, and lifestyle content to engage listeners. As a core component of SCA's portfolio, the Hit Network operates alongside the Triple M network, which targets a different demographic with rock-oriented programming, allowing SCA to cover a broad spectrum of Australian radio audiences. The network emphasizes localized content across metropolitan and regional markets, delivered via FM, AM, DAB+, and digital platforms like the LiSTNR app. The Hit Network reaches over 5.79 million Australians weekly (as of Survey 6, 2025), establishing it as Australia's largest by audience size and dominating the 25-54 demographic, particularly among women in this age group. Its programming, including syndicated shows like Jimmy & Nath and Lucy & Nikki, prioritizes pop culture commentary and listener interaction to maintain high engagement.

Target Audience and Format

The Hit Network primarily targets adults aged 25-54, with a strong emphasis on women in this demographic and appeal to 18-39 in urban markets, serving listeners seeking upbeat and relatable entertainment across regional areas. This focus aligns with its position as a leading network for women 25-54, extending to broader audiences in key markets while prioritizing vibrant, feel-good content. The network's music format blends hot adult contemporary (Hot AC) and (CHR), centering on , pop, and dance tracks from the past 1-2 years to deliver a contemporary, energetic vibe, with recent youth-leaning adjustments in flagship stations like . Curated playlists emphasize recent releases and mood-focused "feel great" pop selections, deliberately steering clear of deep cuts from eras to maintain a fresh, modern rotation. Programming revolves around high-energy breakfast shows, celebrity interviews, competitions, and lifestyle segments seamlessly integrated with music to foster an engaging, entertaining experience. These elements create a dynamic content style that boosts listener interaction and emotional connection through relatable, uplifting segments. The branding evolved significantly with the 2015 rebrand from the Today Network to Today's Hit Network, followed by a major expansion in 2016 that aligned over 50 stations under the Hit banner, introducing the slogan "Get that Hit Feeling" to encapsulate a unified contemporary vibe centered on positive, hit-driven energy. This positioning has helped solidify the network's reach to over 5.79 million Australians (as of 2025), reinforcing its role in delivering feel-good audio entertainment.

History

Origins and Formation

The Austereo Network traces its origins to the introduction of commercial in , which commenced in following regulatory changes in the late 1970s that ended the previous monopoly on AM radio and opened opportunities for new frequency bands. Paul Thompson founded the Austereo Group that year, securing the first commercial FM license in and launching SAFM (call sign 5SSA) on September 12, , as the city's inaugural FM station under the branding Double SAFM. This launch marked Austereo's entry into the market, capitalizing on the FM band's superior sound quality to target younger listeners with a vibrant music-focused approach amid the post-1970s that encouraged private investment in broadcasting infrastructure. In 1986, Austereo formalized its network structure through the acquisition of Fox FM in , expanding from its Adelaide base to other major metropolitan markets and establishing the Austereo Network as a cohesive entity. This move was followed by the purchase of Brisbane's 4BK AM station in 1988, which Austereo converted to FM and rebranded as B105 in 1990, further solidifying its presence in key cities like , , and . Under initial ownership by the Austereo Group led by Thompson, the network emphasized the (CHR) format, featuring , high-energy presentation, and minimal talk to appeal to a demographic, which became a hallmark of its early stations. Early network synergies emerged through shared programming across metropolitan outlets, such as syndicated music countdowns and promotional content distributed between stations like B105 in and SAFM in , enabling cost efficiencies and consistent branding in the competitive post- landscape. These foundational steps positioned Austereo as a pioneer in Australia's FM radio evolution, leveraging deregulation to build a national footprint focused on dissemination.

Expansion and Rebranding

In 2011, Southern Cross Media Group acquired Austereo Group Limited for approximately A$741 million, forming (SCA) and integrating Austereo's metropolitan radio assets with Southern Cross's extensive regional network. This merger expanded SCA's radio portfolio to over 80 commercial stations, enabling the incorporation of regional outlets into contemporary formats and creating a unified national presence that combined Austereo's urban-focused programming with broader geographic coverage. The rebranding efforts culminated in 2014 when SCA renamed its Today Network as the Hit Network, unifying its core metropolitan stations—initially around seven outlets including in and SAFM in —under a hot adult contemporary (Hot AC) format. This shift refreshed the network's identity, emphasizing current and recent hits targeted at adults aged 25-54, and positioned it to better compete with established rivals like the Australian Radio Network's KIIS and Pure brands. Further expansions in the mid-2010s included the launch of digital multicast channels via DAB+ radio, with SCA introducing specialized Hit Network stations such as Easy Hits, Buddha Hits, and Oldskool in 2017 to diversify content delivery and extend reach beyond traditional FM broadcasting. Concurrently, the Hit Network was integrated into SCA's overarching portfolio alongside the Triple M rock format, culminating in a 2016 rebranding of 60 regional stations that grew the combined networks to 43 Hit outlets and 35 Triple M stations, enhancing operational synergies and national advertising opportunities. Amid these developments, mid-2010s changes emphasized content standardization, with the introduction of expanded networked programming—including shows across select regional and metro markets—to streamline operations and deliver consistent listener experiences nationwide. This approach built on the momentum, reducing silos between local and national elements while preserving key heritage brands in major cities.

Recent Developments

In 2020, undertook a significant overhaul of the Hit Network, rebranding several regional stations to align more closely with the Hit branding and adopting a pop-based music format targeted at listeners aged 30-54. This included the rebranding of acquired Redwave stations in to Hit and formats earlier in the year, followed by a national strategy announced on July 27 that restored heritage names like B105 in while unifying programming under the Hit umbrella to enhance brand recognition and reclaim market share in competitive duopoly markets such as and . On September 30, 2025, Southern Cross Media announced a merger with , valued at approximately AUD$420 million, to form a combined entity owning 50.1% by Southern Cross shareholders and 49.9% by Seven shareholders. The deal aims to create synergies across radio, television, and digital platforms, including potential integration of the Hit Network with Seven's content distribution and data capabilities to bolster advertising and audience engagement. (ACCC) approved the merger on November 12, 2025, without opposition, citing minimal impact on in advertising and content markets. The merger is expected to generate annual cost savings of AUD$25-30 million through operational efficiencies and shared , with completion anticipated before December 2, 2025, pending shareholder approval. This consolidation positions the Hit Network within a larger media group, enabling opportunities between audio and Seven's television and digital assets. Complementing these developments, Southern Cross Media sold its remaining regional television assets in 2025, including licenses in , Darwin, , and to for an upfront AUD$3.75 million (potentially up to AUD$24 million including profit share), completed on July 1, 2025, allowing the company to refocus exclusively on its audio operations, including the Hit Network. The sales mark the end of Southern Cross's television presence and underscore a strategic pivot toward radio and growth.

Ownership and Operations

Parent Company

The Hit Network is owned and operated by (SCA), Australia's largest commercial radio broadcaster by number of stations, with SCA operating 104 , and digital stations and holding 88 radio licenses across the country. SCA was formed in July 2011 through the merger of Southern Cross Media Group and Austereo Group, creating a combined entity focused on radio broadcasting and related media assets. Within SCA's portfolio, the Hit Network serves as the primary Hot Adult Contemporary (Hot AC) brand, complementing the rock network and the LiSTNR digital audio platform, which offers streaming, podcasts, and on-demand content. Prior to the 2025 sale of its regional television assets to , SCA's holdings also included broadcast television services in regional markets. SCA operates as a of the ASX-listed Southern Cross Media Group Limited (ticker: SXL), with primary revenue generated from sales across broadcast and digital channels, syndication of programming, and ancillary services such as commercial production and facility sharing. The company is headquartered in , Victoria, and is led by John Kelly, who oversees the audio division's strategy, including the integration of Hit Network operations with digital initiatives. Heith Mackay-Cruise serves as Chairman, guiding amid ongoing expansions in audio content delivery. In September 2025, SCA announced a proposed merger with , which received ACCC approval on November 12, 2025, and is expected to complete in early 2026, potentially reshaping SCA's structure as the parent entity for Hit Network.

Coverage and Infrastructure

The Hit Network operates 41 stations across all Australian states and territories, delivering programming to both metropolitan centers such as , , , , and Perth, as well as regional markets including areas in , , and . This extensive footprint ensures broad accessibility for listeners nationwide, with stations tailored to local preferences while sharing core networked content. Transmission occurs primarily through FM analog broadcasting, supplemented by DAB+ digital radio in five major capital cities—Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide—allowing for enhanced audio quality and additional channels where available. The infrastructure supports reliable signal delivery, with Southern Cross Austereo's (SCA) transmission assets, encompassing over 500 radio services, managed under a long-term partnership with to maintain operational efficiency. This setup contributes to the network reaching approximately 95% of the Australian population weekly. Operational logistics are centered on key production hubs in and , where syndicated shows and content are developed by a dedicated team under the group content director, facilitating cohesive programming across the network. Regional stations incorporate for off-peak hours to optimize resource use and ensure seamless playback of pre-recorded segments and music. Listener metrics are tracked via integration with GfK's radio surveys, providing detailed insights into reach, share, and demographic engagement for stations and the network as a whole.

Stations

Metropolitan Stations

The Hit Network's metropolitan stations serve as flagship outlets in Australia's five largest capital cities, delivering contemporary hit music to substantial urban listener bases and driving much of the network's national reach. These stations emphasize high-energy programming tailored to young adults and urban demographics, often incorporating local events, celebrity interviews, and music discovery to maintain market leadership in competitive environments. In Sydney, 2Day FM broadcasts on 104.1 MHz with the call sign 2DAY, having launched on 2 August 1980 as one of Australia's inaugural commercial FM stations; it targets a youthful urban audience with a focus on emerging hits and vibrant city-centric content. Melbourne's Fox FM operates on 101.9 MHz under call sign 3FOX, debuting on 1 August 1980, and distinguishes itself with top 40 hits blended with local sports and entertainment commentary to appeal to the city's dynamic lifestyle. Brisbane's B105 airs on 105.3 MHz with call sign 4BBB, transitioning to FM on 26 February 1990 from its AM origins in 1930, and features a lively mix emphasizing Queensland's coastal vibe and community engagement. Adelaide's SAFM transmits on 107.1 MHz via call sign 5SSA, commencing operations on 12 September 1980, and offers a polished contemporary format with a nod to South Australia's festival culture and relaxed pace. In Perth, Mix 94.5 broadcasts on 94.5 MHz with call sign 6MIX, launching in its current FM format on 1 July 1991 after AM roots dating to 1941, and provides adult-oriented hits with a focus on Western Australia's outdoor and multicultural influences since joining the Hit Network in December 2020.
StationCityFrequencyCall SignLaunch Date (FM)
2Day FM104.1 MHz2DAY2 August 1980
Fox FM101.9 MHz3FOX1 August 1980
B105105.3 MHz4BBB26 February 1990
SAFM107.1 MHz5SSA12 September 1980
Mix 94.5Perth94.5 MHz6MIX1 July 1991
These stations cover the primary metropolitan areas of , Victoria, , , and , respectively, reaching millions in combined audience share. Metro stations frequently originate key networked programming, such as breakfast and drive-time shows, which are syndicated to regional affiliates to ensure consistent branding and content across the Hit Network.

Regional Stations

The Regional Stations of the Hit Network serve rural and regional audiences across , extending the contemporary hit music format to areas outside major cities and ensuring broader national coverage for Southern Cross Austereo's programming. These stations primarily broadcast syndicated content from metropolitan hubs, such as music playlists and national shows, but incorporate localized elements to maintain in their communities. A key aspect of these stations is their automation for much of the day, relying on networked feeds from urban centers like and , which allows efficient operation in smaller markets with limited local staffing. However, they feature targeted local news bulletins, weather updates, and advertisements to address community-specific needs, fostering a sense of connection in remote areas. In 2020, accelerated the rebranding of select regional outlets to the Hit moniker, promoting uniformity across the network and simplifying listener access to consistent branding and content. This move built on earlier expansions, absorbing former local brands like Hot FM in and Star FM in to create a cohesive regional presence. These stations also engage in community events, such as local festivals and charity drives, to strengthen ties with rural listeners and support regional economies. For instance, Hit WA's network in hosts events in towns like and Albany, blending national hits with area-specific promotions. The following table provides representative examples of Hit Network regional stations, grouped by state, highlighting their frequencies and primary target areas:
StateStation ExampleFrequencyTarget Area(s)
New South Wales / ACTHit 104.7104.7 FMCanberra
New South Wales / ACTHit 90.990.9 FMNewcastle
New South Wales / ACTHit 101.3101.3 FMCentral Coast
New South Wales / ACTHit 105.9105.9 FMCentral West (e.g., Orange)
QueenslandHit 100.7100.7 FMDarling Downs (e.g., Toowoomba)
QueenslandHit 101.9101.9 FMFraser Coast (e.g., Hervey Bay)
QueenslandHit 103.5103.5 FMCairns
QueenslandHit Central QueenslandVariousRockhampton / Gladstone
VictoriaHit 91.991.9 FMBendigo
VictoriaHit 99.599.5 FMSunraysia (e.g., Mildura)
South AustraliaSAFM Limestone Coast96.1 FMMount Gambier
Western AustraliaHit 92.9 Mandurah92.9 FMMandurah
Western AustraliaHit 95.395.3 FMAlbany
Western AustraliaHit SouthwestVariousBunbury / Margaret River
TasmaniaHit 100.9100.9 FMHobart and southern Tasmania
This structure allows the Hit Network to cover diverse regions from Queensland's coastal towns to Western Australia's settlements, with many stations operating on FM frequencies tailored to local for optimal signal reach.

Programming

Network Syndicated Shows

The Hit Network relies on syndicated programming to deliver consistent, high-quality content across its 41 stations, particularly enabling regional markets to access flagship shows produced in major hubs like and . These programs are centrally produced in (SCA) studios, allowing for efficient distribution via satellite and digital feeds to maintain a unified identity while incorporating minimal local adaptations where necessary. This approach has been in place since SCA's restructuring, which emphasized syndication to optimize resources and audience engagement. A cornerstone of the network's syndicated lineup is the weekday drive show Carrie & Tommy, hosted by comedian Tommy Little and television personality , airing from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. nationally. Launched in as an extension of their podcast success, the program blends light-hearted banter, listener call-ins, celebrity guests, and contemporary hit music tailored to the network's adult contemporary format. It serves as a flagship afternoon offering, fostering a sense of national community by addressing relatable topics like work-life balance and pop culture trends. For evenings and weekends, The Hot Hits with Nic & Loren provides syndicated , hosted by Nic Kelly and Loren Barry from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and Saturdays from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. across the network. Debuting in January 2025, this show highlights emerging talent through exclusive interviews, premieres, and interactive segments, positioning it as a key driver for discovering new hits within the Hit Network's . Complementing this are weekend specialists like Lucy & Nikki, airing evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., where hosts Lucy Jackson and Nikki Westcott deliver unfiltered discussions on , relationships, and in a conversational podcast-style format. Breakfast syndication exemplifies the network's strategy for regional coverage, with programs originated from state-based stations networked to smaller markets. A prominent example is Stav, Abby & Matt, broadcast from Brisbane's B105 and syndicated to Queensland regional stations like Hit 93.1 in and Hit 90.1 in Mackay. Hosted by Stav Davidson, , and Matt Acton since 2005, the show mixes local Brisbane news, personal anecdotes, and comedic bits, renewed through long-term contracts in 2024 to sustain its appeal. Similar models apply in other states, such as ' Jess & Ducko from Newcastle's Hit106.9 feeding into regional affiliates; however, as of November 2025, co-host Nick 'Ducko' Allen-Ducat announced his departure from the show at the end of the year, with a replacement . These syndicated contents account for the bulk of daytime airtime in non-metropolitan areas—often exceeding 70%—while preserving some station-specific elements.

Local and Station-Specific Programming

Local and station-specific programming on the Hit Network emphasizes content tailored to individual markets, particularly in metropolitan areas, where stations incorporate regional , updates, and community-focused segments to connect with listeners. For instance, B105 in features the breakfast show Stav, Abby & Matt, which blends local Brisbane , personal stories, and events with a focus on the city's lifestyle and culture, airing weekdays from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. This program highlights hyper-local relevance, such as tie-ins with Brisbane sports teams like the , where co-host serves as an ambassador. In , 2Day FM integrates local elements into its schedule, including tailored reports and event promotions, while evenings feature The Hot Hits with Nic & Loren, which incorporates city-specific listener interactions and celebrity calls relevant to the Sydney market. Regional stations adapt programming to address community needs, with a stronger emphasis on localized news, weather, and events to meet regulatory standards. Hit 104.7 in , for example, airs the breakfast show Rod & Gabi, hosted by Rod Cuddihy and Gabi Elgood, which debuted in February 2025 and includes segments on local happenings, such as the annual "Best of Canberra" awards voted by listeners to spotlight community favorites in categories like pet grooming and dining. These variations ensure that regional broadcasts remain relevant, covering area-specific traffic, emergency alerts, and cultural events not addressed in network-wide content. While the Hit Network relies heavily on syndicated shows for evenings and overnights, local programming fills key dayparts like breakfast and drive, comprising a substantial portion of airtime—often prioritizing mornings and afternoons—to deliver hyper-local relevance, such as sports updates tied to regional teams or community spotlights. This balance allows stations to maintain a national music-driven identity while fulfilling obligations for localized information, with metro markets like Brisbane allocating significant slots to city-centric talk and events. Following the Hit Network's relaunch in January 2015, increased investment in station-specific content, particularly in regional areas, to comply with (ACMA) requirements for local presence on commercial radio. These rules mandate minimum local content, including at least 12.5 minutes of and daily for designated regional markets, prompting stations to enhance community-focused segments post-rebrand. This evolution has sustained listener engagement by embedding local relevance amid growing syndication.

Digital Presence

Digital Radio Services

The Hit Network participates in Australia's DAB+ digital radio platform, which was launched in late 2009 across the major capital cities of , , , Perth, and . These cities represent the initial rollout for commercial services, with the Hit Network's metropolitan stations on DAB+ to provide listeners with an alternative to analog . In addition to simulcasts, the network offers multicast channels exclusive to DAB+, including Oldskool 90s Hits, which focuses on nostalgic from the and is available in markets such as , , , Perth, , and . Other variants include Oldskool 80s Hits, Buddha Hits, RnB Fridays Radio, and Dance Hits, expanding the network's programming diversity on DAB+ without requiring separate FM frequencies. Technically, the main Hit Network channels on DAB+ operate at approximately 128 kbit/s bitrate, allocated as one-ninth of the multiplex capacity for commercial broadcasters. DAB+ coverage for these services is confined to metropolitan areas, reaching about 66% of Australia's population as of 2024. DAB+ delivery provides advantages over traditional FM, including clearer free from interference and additional data services such as real-time song titles, artist information, and station logos displayed on compatible receivers.

Online Streaming and Apps

The Hit Network provides online streaming and app-based access to its content through the LiSTNR platform, developed by its parent company (SCA). Launched on February 17, 2021, LiSTNR serves as a centralized app for of all Hit Network stations, on-demand podcasts from network shows, and exclusive audio content tailored for Australian audiences. The app aggregates Hit Network's music-driven programming, allowing users to access metropolitan and regional stations seamlessly via mobile devices on and Android. Complementing the app, the Hit Network's official website at hit.listnr.com offers integrated live audio streaming, catch-up episodes of popular shows, and curated playlists featuring current hits and artist spotlights. The network also maintains a YouTube channel with over 49,000 subscribers, hosting video clips such as show highlights, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content from syndicated programs like Jimmy & Nath. Key features of LiSTNR enhance user engagement, including a personalized "For You" homepage that recommends content based on listening habits, offline downloads for podcast episodes to enable access without internet connectivity, and integration with smart speakers like Sonos for high-quality streaming of Hit stations and catch-up audio. These capabilities support global and on-demand listening, distinct from terrestrial options like DAB+ simulcasts. Since its introduction amid the post-2020 acceleration in digital audio consumption, LiSTNR has driven substantial growth for the Hit Network, with the platform reaching 8.6 million monthly listeners by mid-2025 and complementing traditional radio with expanded online reach. This shift has positioned the platform as a key driver in SCA's strategy, with ongoing updates like enhanced navigation and music discovery tabs further boosting accessibility.

Impact and Reception

Audience Reach and Ratings

The Hit Network reaches millions of listeners weekly across , according to data from (SCA). This substantial audience underscores its position as one of the country's leading commercial radio networks, with a particular strength in metropolitan and regional markets. Ratings are measured through surveys, which succeeded AC Nielsen as the primary provider of radio audience metrics in , providing detailed insights into listener numbers and time spent listening. Leading stations within the network, such as 101.9 The Fox in , have topped surveys in their markets, achieving weekly audiences exceeding 1.15 million people aged 10 and over. In the key 25-54 demographic, SCA's networks including the Hit Network hold a leading commercial share of 36.5%, establishing it as the top network for women in this age group for multiple consecutive surveys. The audience has an urban orientation, reflecting its focus on contemporary hit music and programming that appeals to city dwellers. Recent growth has been notable among 18-24-year-olds through digital platforms, driven by on-demand listening and social integration. Following the rebrand, which restored heritage station names like SAFM and B105 while unifying under the Hit banner, the network enhanced its overall performance. Additionally, digital streaming via the LiSTNR app contributes to the network's audience, supplementing traditional broadcast reach and supporting sustained engagement.

Notable Events and Controversies

One of the most significant controversies involving the Hit Network occurred in December 2012, when presenters and Michael Christian from its station in made a phone call to in , impersonating Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles to obtain details about Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge's, medical treatment during her pregnancy. The call was broadcast without the hospital's knowledge, leading to the suicide of nurse Jacintha Saldanha, who had transferred the call after verifying the callers' identities. This incident sparked widespread public outrage, prompted the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to investigate for breaches of privacy and decency codes, and resulted in suspending advertising for several weeks, with the network facing fines and heightened regulatory scrutiny over ethical broadcasting practices. In response to the 2019–2020 Australian bushfires, the Hit Network, along with its sister network under , banned songs with fire-related or insensitive lyrics from to avoid offending listeners amid the national crisis, which killed at least 33 people and destroyed millions of hectares. This decision, affecting hits like "" by and "" by , was praised for sensitivity but highlighted ongoing debates about content curation during disasters. In the , the network faced complaints regarding promotional giveaways, leading to ACMA inquiries into compliance with commercial radio codes. On the achievements front, the Hit Network has hosted major live music events, such as Fridayz Live, which in 2025 featured headline performances by Mariah Carey and Pitbull across multiple cities, drawing thousands of attendees and boosting its profile in Australian entertainment. The network has also secured high-profile celebrity endorsements and promotions, including extensive coverage of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in 2024 with non-stop airplay and ticket giveaways, as well as dedicated programming for her 2025 album The Life of a Showgirl, including exclusive vinyl prizes and fan engagement weekends. These efforts underscored the network's role in amplifying global pop culture in Australia. Culturally, the Hit Network has contributed to Australian pop culture through viral moments from shows like Hughesy & Kate on Fox FM, where pranks such as Kate Langbroek's surprise return from in 2019 and on-air celebrity impersonations garnered millions of online views and shares, fostering national conversations on humor and . During the , the network provided community support by broadcasting essential health updates, resources, and morale-boosting segments, aligning with radio's broader role in informing isolated Australians under restrictions. In 2025, the proposed merger between (owner of the Hit Network) and drew scrutiny from media watchdogs and critics over potential increases in media concentration, with concerns raised about reduced content diversity and local in regional areas; the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission cleared the deal on November 13, 2025, without opposition, with completion expected by year-end.

References

  1. https://www.sca.com.au/about/audio/
  2. https://www.sca.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Annual-Report-2024.pdf
  3. https://www.bandt.com.au/today-network-become-todays-hit-network-2015/
  4. https://www.adnews.com.au/news/southern-cross-reverses-hit-network-rebrand-for-safm-and-b105
  5. https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/southern-cross-austereo-rebranding-60-regional-radio-stations-as-triple-m-and-hit-network-20160926-grocec.html
  6. https://www.sca.com.au/media-releases/the-hit-network-fires-up-its-2024-metro-winter-line-up-with-jimmy-nath-and-lucy-nikki-taking-over-from-3pm/
  7. https://hit.listnr.com/
  8. https://www.sca.com.au/media-releases/lucy-nikki-are-radio-gold-and-expand-national-nights-weekend-show-on-the-hit-network/
  9. https://radioinfo.com.au/news/the-hot-hits-with-nic-loren-the-first-new-sca-radio-show-launch-for-2025/
  10. https://www.sca.com.au/
  11. https://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/episodes/sca/105966556
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