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Triple M
Triple M
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Triple M is an Australian commercial radio network owned and operated by Southern Cross Austereo. The network consists of 45 radio stations with flagship stations broadcasting a mainstream/classic rock music format in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, 37 regional stations broadcasting a modern adult contemporary/adult hits format and 5 digital radio stations.

Key Information

The network dates back to the launch of Triple M Sydney in 1980. On 15 December 2016, the network was amalgamated with the LocalWorks network of regional radio stations.[1]

History

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The first Triple M station was Triple M Sydney, which commenced broadcasting to Sydney on 2 August 1980. Triple M Sydney and then-rival 2Day FM were the first commercial FM radio stations in Sydney. Throughout the 1980s, Triple M was one of the highest-rating radio stations in Sydney, spearheaded by its morning show presented by Doug Mulray and featuring the writing of and occasional appearances by Andrew Denton. For all of this period and into the 1990s, Triple M's promotional campaign featured the character "Dr Dan", a guitar-playing satyr with wings, inspired by artwork by legendary Australian cartoonist Peter Ledger, and a theme song that was an extended reworking of the Mike Batt track "Introduction (The Journey of a Fool)", from his 1979 album Tarot Suite.

In 1988, Melbourne radio station EON FM (3EON), 92.3 was taken over by Triple M and changed its callsign to Triple M and moved to 105.1 MHz in November 1988. EON FM was Australia's first commercial FM radio station, commencing broadcasting on 11 July 1980.

Brisbane radio station Triple M Brisbane was launched in 1980 and took on the FM104 identity soon after. It returned to the Triple M identity in early 1990. Its callsign has remained 4MMM since its 1980 launch. Triple M Brisbane started broadcasting on 104.1FM, then late in the 1980s changed to its present frequency of 104.5-FM.

Adelaide radio station 5KA converted from 1197 kHz to 104.7 MHz on 1 January 1990 and was renamed KAFM (5KKA). The station was taken over by Village Roadshow, who then owned Triple M, and they successfully negotiated the purchase of the 5MMM callsign from a community radio station in 1993. That station is now known as Three D Radio (5DDD), and the 5MMM callsign is now used by Triple M Adelaide (104.7).

Perth radio station 96FM (6NOW) also carried the Triple M identity and 6MMM callsign in the early 1990s but was then sold to Southern Cross Broadcasting who changed the station's identity back to its original name. Mix 94.5 until December 2020 was "considered"[2] to be a part of the Triple M network in Perth utilising local programming (as opposed to airing networked Triple M programmes) and Mix 94.5 didn’t carry the Triple M brand, logo or call letters.

In Auckland, New Zealand, a Triple M station existed between 1984 and 1988 when 89 Stereo FM became part of Triple M. The station previously used the call sign 1ROQ and changed to 1MMM when becoming part of Triple M. New Zealand no longer uses radio station call signs. This station later reverted to 89FM in 1988 and eventually closed down in 1994.[3]

While many of the comedy and talk programs are networked, large sections of music programming originate from the local market of each Triple M.

On Friday 17 November 2006, Triple M (including Mix 94.5 in Perth) referred to itself as U2FM for the day, as part of a promotion relating to the band U2 and their 2006 Australian Tour and CD release.

Triple M launched High Voltage Radio, a "pop up" digital radio station that exclusively played AC/DC for the duration of the band's 2010 tour of Australia.[4]

On 16 August 2013, Triple M Perth was launched on digital radio, returning the station to Perth. Branded as Perth's Real Music Alternative, the station also carried Triple M AFL coverage.[5] On 27 September 2014, the station was replaced by Triple M Modern Rock Digital. Featuring only new rock music, the station also expanded to Adelaide.[6]

On 25 November 2013, Triple M Classic Rock Digital radio station was launched.[7][8] The station format is exclusively classic rock, with no announcer talkback.

On 1 December 2020, the Triple M brand was relaunched in Perth, replacing contemporary hit radio station Hit 92.9 after sister station Mix 94.5 switched affiliation to the Hit Network.[9]

Stations

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As of 1 December 2020, the Triple M network consists of 40 AM and FM radio stations.

Digital radio

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As of 20 July 2020, the Triple M network broadcasts an additional six radio stations on DAB+ digital radio.

Years Triple M station Format Availability History
2013–2016, 2017–present Triple M Classic Rock Classic rock Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart
2021–present Triple M 80s 1980s music Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide Formerly known as:
– Triple M Soft Rock (2019–2021)
– Triple M Aussie (2019)
– Triple M Modern Digital (2017–2019)
– Triple M Modern Rock (2014–2016)
– Triple M Perth (2013–2014)
2023–present Triple M Tradie Radio 1990s music, 2000s music Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart Formerly known as:
– Triple M 90s (2020–2023)
– Triple M Greatest Hits (2017–2020)
– OMG! (2016–2017)
2022–present Triple M 2000s 2000s music Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide Formerly known as:
– Triple M Hard n Heavy (2019–2022)

Hard N Heavy was moved to the LiSNTR internet radio platform.

2018–present Triple M Country Country music Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart Formerly known as:
– The Range (2012–2018)
2023–present Triple M Almost Acoustic Acoustic music Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane

Southern Cross Austereo also owns Mix 106.3 Canberra along with the Australian Radio Network, and is part of the Triple M network, although it is operated primarily by ARN as part of its KIIS Network.

Music

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M-One Rock festival

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In September 2002, Triple M and Frontier Touring held four rock concerts in Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney as part of the touring M-One festival, which featured Goo Goo Dolls, Nickelback, Garbage, Lifehouse, Default, Midnight Oil and Antiskeptic.

Essential Countdown

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In 2004, the national network counted down the Triple M Essential 2005 Songs from Boxing Day to Australia Day. The number one song was Violent Femmes' "Blister in the Sun".

Triple M have held an Essential Countdown based on listener votes since 2006, beginning in October of each year, counting the same number of songs as the year (e.g., 2006 songs in 2006). The countdown has received some criticism for being overly similar to the Triple J Hottest 100 countdown, despite the Triple J Hottest 100 only including songs from the preceding 12 months.

Sports broadcasting

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Australian Football League

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Triple M Melbourne first broadcast Australian Football League games in 1997 after securing broadcasting rights. In 1999 Triple M expanded its coverage to Triple M Adelaide followed by Triple M Sydney and Triple M Brisbane in 2005 and Triple M Perth in 2021 with regional stations around the country also having coverage. The 2024 coverage includes the following broadcasters:

Commentators

Experts

Boundary

Journalists

  • Damian Barrett - Chief correspondent at AFL Media
  • Jay Clark - AFL reporter at the Herald Sun
  • Nat Yoannidis - Sports reporter at Channel 9

Triple M is the only commercial FM broadcasters of the AFL in Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane and Sydney (although only the local teams - the Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast Suns in Brisbane and Sydney Swans and GWS Giants in Sydney respectively - are covered in the latter two cities with the local teams in Adelaide and Perth coverage in the two cities along with neutral games.) Triple M is best known for offering a less formal coverage than AM radio, providing listeners with a sense of comedy to the call while still calling the action. The station is the only radio station that provide listeners with the umpires microphones often heard on TV coverage. The TISM song ‘Shut Up the Footy’s on the Radio’ the radio stations theme song and is often heard throughout the broadcast before and after ad breaks in games.

National Rugby League

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In October 2006, the National Rugby League announced that beginning in 2007, Triple M Sydney would be the exclusive commercial broadcaster of Monday Night Rugby league matches. The coverage began on 19 March with the Round 1 match between the Sydney Roosters and South Sydney Rabbitohs. Currently, Triple M broadcast 5 games a round, a Thursday night, two Friday nights, a Saturday and a Sunday, all Finals and all State of Origin matches.

The commentary team includes the following:

Andrew Johns, Peter Sterling, Dan Ginnane, Gorden Tallis, Ryan Girdler, Wendell Sailor, Mark Geyer, Emma Lawrence, Tony Squires, Paul Kent, Ben Dobbin, Brent Read and James Hooper.

Cricket Australia

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In 2009, Triple M broadcast twenty20 cricket live between the Australian Cricket Team, South African Cricket Team and the New Zealand Cricket Team. Commentators included Damien Fleming, Stuart MacGill, Greg Blewett, and Brendan Julian.

In December 2016, Triple M became the first FM radio station to broadcast test cricket. Commentators included James Brayshaw, Kerry O'Keeffe, Michael Slater, Brett Lee, Brad Haddin, Merv Hughes, Darren Berry, H.G Nelson, Jules Schiller, Lawrence Mooney, Gus Worland, Neroli Meadows, Isa Guha, Mick Molloy and Mark Howard. In May 2018, it was announced that Triple M will no longer broadcast cricket, after the station chose not to renew their contract with Cricket Australia.[10] However in August 2021, Triple M announced that they will return to broadcasting Test Cricket along with One Day Internationals played in the next three summers starting in the 2021/22 season which included the Ashes Series.

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Triple M is an Australian commercial owned and operated by , comprising 49 stations that broadcast a mix of , sports coverage, comedy, and information programming nationwide. The network traces its origins to 1980, with the launch of its flagship station in as the first Triple M, while Melbourne's station launched as EON-FM, Australia's first commercial FM broadcaster, before rebranding to Triple M on 105.1 FM in 1988. Over more than four decades, Triple M has become one of the country's most recognizable audio brands, reaching over 4.9 million radio and on-demand listeners weekly as of October 2025 through its FM, AM, and DAB+ signals, as well as digital extensions like Triple M , Triple M , and Triple M . Key programming highlights include live sports broadcasts, such as AFL and NRL footy commentary with leading call teams, alongside breakfast shows featuring prominent personalities and music focused on greatest hits from genres. The network's stations serve major metropolitan areas like (104.9 FM), Melbourne (105.1 FM), Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth, as well as regional markets, fostering a blend of that emphasizes Australian and .

Network Overview

Description and Format

Triple M is an Australian commercial radio network owned by , comprising 49 stations broadcast nationwide across , and DAB+ frequencies. The network delivers a blend of music, talk, , and content, primarily targeting listeners in the 25-54 age demographic with a strong skew toward males. The "Triple M" branding derives from the callsign of its station, 2MMM, which launched in 1980 as one of Australia's first commercial FM outlets focused on . Note that EON-FM in , which later rebranded to Triple M, was the nation's first commercial FM station. Over time, the network's slogans have evolved to reflect its core identity, such as "Rock, and Comedy," underscoring its emphasis on entertaining a predominantly male audience through music-driven programming interspersed with humorous segments and live sports coverage. With a weekly reach exceeding 4.9 million radio and on-demand listeners, Triple M provides broad coverage in major metropolitan areas and regional markets, fostering a loyal following among those interested in timeless rock hits and engaging audio experiences.

Ownership and Operations

Triple M is owned and operated by (SCA), Australia's largest commercial radio broadcaster, which acquired the network through its 2011 merger with the Austereo Group. As of November 2025, SCA maintains full ownership of Triple M, though a proposed merger with —announced on September 30, 2025, and valued at approximately A$400 million—has received informal clearance from the ACCC on November 13, 2025, but remains pending ACMA approval and other conditions, with completion targeted for early 2026. Under SCA's leadership, key executives include John Kelly, who has overseen the company's strategic focus on audio transformation since July 2023. SCA's operational structure is centralized at its headquarters in , Victoria, with a network syndication model that distributes flagship programs—such as breakfast shows and national music segments—from major metropolitan hubs to affiliated stations across . This approach enables consistent branding and content sharing while allowing local adaptations, supporting SCA's portfolio of 99 radio stations under the Triple M and brands. The network's primary revenue streams derive from and sponsorships, particularly in and sectors, which accounted for a significant portion of SCA's A$421.9 million in fiscal year 2025. Cross-promotions with SCA's further enhance monetization by leveraging combined audience reach for integrated campaigns. SCA employs approximately 1,800 staff across its operations, including on-air talent, producers, and sales teams dedicated to Triple M and related networks. The company maintains a suite of workplace policies emphasizing diversity, inclusion, health and safety, and anti-harassment measures, as outlined in its and Sustainability Reports, to foster a respectful professional environment.

History

Origins and Launch

Austereo, founded by Paul Thompson in 1980 to pioneer commercial FM radio in Australia, launched its flagship station 2MMM in Sydney on August 2, 1980, marking one of the earliest commercial FM broadcasts in a major Australian market alongside rival . The station, branded as Triple M, adopted an (AOR) format emphasizing deep cuts from rock albums rather than top-40 singles, aiming to attract a mature audience of music enthusiasts in competition with the pop-focused FM newcomer. This approach was influenced by Austereo's successful AOR strategy at stations like SAFM in , positioning Triple M as a distinct alternative in Sydney's evolving radio landscape. In its formative years, Triple M built a loyal listenership through engaging programming that highlighted and artist interviews, supplemented by live events such as broadcasts and music festivals that fostered community ties. A pivotal early milestone came in 1982 with the debut of Doug Mulray's breakfast show, which combined comedy, music, and audience interaction to propel the station to top ratings in for much of the decade. These elements helped Triple M transition from a startup entrant to a ratings powerhouse, emphasizing quality stereo sound and curated playlists over commercial interruptions. The station's origins unfolded amid a stringent regulatory framework governing Australia's shift from AM to , with the federal government allocating limited commercial FM licenses in 1980 through the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal to promote competition and technical advancement. This transition, delayed until the late 1970s due to concerns over spectrum allocation and existing AM dominance, presented challenges including technical setup hurdles that postponed the planned July launch and required stations to navigate strict content quotas and ownership rules. Despite these obstacles, the regulatory push for FM diversification enabled Triple M to capitalize on superior audio fidelity, setting the stage for its growth in the 1980s.

Expansion to National Network

Following the success of its Sydney flagship, Triple M expanded to Melbourne in 1988, where the existing EON FM station on 92.3 MHz was acquired by the 2MMM owners and rebranded as 3MMM. The station shifted to 105.1 MHz in November 1988 and adopted the network's signature rock music format, targeting a similar adult contemporary rock audience. The network continued its growth with Brisbane in 1990, when the longstanding FM104 station embraced the Triple M branding and 4MMM callsign on 104.5 MHz, integrating into the national rock format while retaining local programming elements. Expansion reached Adelaide in 1993 through the acquisition of KAFM (104.7 MHz), which was rebranded as 5MMM and aligned with Triple M's rock-oriented lineup. Perth followed in 1993, with 96FM adopting the 96.1 Triple M identity and callsign 6MMM to bring the format to Western Australia. Concurrently, the network acquired several regional affiliates, such as stations in rural New South Wales and Queensland, to broaden its footprint beyond capital cities. Central to this national rollout were strategies like syndicating popular shows from to build listener familiarity across markets, alongside standardizing the playlist and presentation style for a cohesive brand identity. These efforts ensured consistent rock programming while allowing for some local customization. In the , Triple M marked key milestones by deepening its integration, launching dedicated sports chat segments and securing live AFL broadcast rights starting with games in 1997, which extended to other cities soon after. This pivot enhanced the network's appeal to male demographics and sports enthusiasts. By , these developments had driven substantial audience expansion, with the network reaching over 2 million weekly listeners nationally.

Recent Developments

In 2011, Austereo, the owner of the Triple M network, merged with Southern Cross Broadcasting to form (SCA), creating a unified entity that streamlined operations across metropolitan and regional stations and generated annual synergies of $12 million to $15 million through cost efficiencies and integrated programming. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted format adjustments in key markets, including Perth, where on December 1, 2020, SCA rebranded 92.9 FM from Hit 92.9 to Triple M, reverting to a mainstream rock format after years without a dedicated Triple M presence in the city since the 1990s. This relaunch delivered Triple M's signature blend of rock music, sports, and comedy to Perth listeners, with Mix 94.5 assuming the Hit Network affiliation. From 2023 onward, Triple M expanded its digital offerings to address competition from streaming services, launching Triple M Tradie Radio on May 1, 2023, as a DAB+ station curated for tradespeople with high-energy rock tracks from bands like AC/DC, Oasis, and Nirvana, supported by launch partners XXXX beer and Mitsubishi Triton. SCA's broader strategy included enhancing the LiSTNR app for on-demand audio, positioning Triple M to capture audiences shifting toward digital platforms amid warnings from investors about streaming's threat to traditional radio revenue. In 2024, Triple M demonstrated resilience with strong ratings performance, particularly in , where it topped the overall market share at 13.7% in the final survey of the year, surpassing rivals like Mix 102.3. In late 2024, SCA announced programming changes effective 2025, nationalizing drive-time slots by extending The Show across the network from 3-6pm in and , while introducing JB and Billy's The nationally into and Perth, effectively axing the local Rush Hour iterations in those markets at the end of 2024 despite their competitive ratings. These shifts aimed to standardize content delivery while maintaining localized sports coverage. However, the 2025 lineup faced disruptions when Sheargold was sacked in February 2025 following backlash over misogynistic on-air comments about the Matildas women's soccer team, which led to an ACMA finding of decency breaches in September 2025. In April 2025, Triple M announced a new afternoon team for the national slot, featuring NRL commentator alongside Anthony Maroon and sports reporter , while The Rush Hour with JB and Billy proceeded with its expanded national rollout to and Perth as planned.

Stations

Metropolitan Stations

Triple M's metropolitan stations form the core of its urban broadcast presence in Australia's major capital cities, delivering a mix of , sports commentary, and entertainment tailored to local audiences while sharing national programming elements. These flagship outlets, operated by , operate primarily on FM frequencies and emphasize regional relevance through community events, sports coverage, and personality-driven shows. In , 2MMM broadcasts on 104.9 FM as the network's original flagship station, having launched on August 2, 1980, with a focus on that quickly established it as a market leader. The station's , 2MMM, reflects its early "triple music" policy of playing three songs in a row without interruption, a format innovation that contributed to its enduring popularity in the nation's largest radio market. As Triple M's highest-profile outlet, 2MMM drives significant national syndication and remains a key revenue contributor for the network due to Sydney's advertising scale. Melbourne's 3MMM operates on 105.1 FM and joined the Triple M brand on November 27, 1988, following the acquisition and rebranding of the former EON FM station, which had debuted in 1980. The station, with its 3MMM , has developed a strong emphasis on sports broadcasting, particularly , while incorporating comedy segments that trace back to its early programming with groups like . This blend has solidified 3MMM's position as a go-to for listeners seeking humorous takes on local culture alongside rock playlists. Brisbane's 4MMM airs on 104.5 FM and adopted the Triple M identity in early , building on the foundation of the original FM104 station launched in 1980. Known for its 4MMM , the station integrates deeply with local events, such as hosting rock concerts like the Oztober Garage Session and partnering with sports teams for fan activations, enhancing its community ties in Queensland's capital. Adelaide's 5MMM transmits on 104.7 FM and launched under the Triple M banner on 1 January 1994, evolving from earlier formats on the 5KA frequency that dated to 1927. The station's , 5MMM, underscores its rock-oriented programming, which in featured the top-rated FM breakfast show in the market, hosted by , Ditts, and Loz, achieving consistent leadership across surveys. This success highlights 5MMM's strong appeal in South Australia's primary market, with the breakfast program securing the #1 overall slot for much of the year. Perth's 6MMM broadcasts on 92.9 FM and was relaunched as a Triple M station on December 1, 2020, replacing the Hit 92.9 format and reviving the network's presence in after earlier iterations. Bearing the 6MMM , the station saw significant programming shifts in 2025, including the end of its local drive show with Embers & Katie at the close of 2024, transitioning to the national Show from 3-4pm and an expanded with JB & Billy from 4-6pm to cover . These changes aim to align Perth more closely with the broader Triple M network while maintaining local flavor through sports and music content.

Regional Stations

Triple M maintains a strong presence in through 33 stations as of August 2025, extending its rock-oriented format and entertainment programming to non-metropolitan areas across , Victoria, , , , , and the . These stations target rural and smaller urban communities, providing accessible radio services that complement the network's metropolitan flagships. Notable examples include Triple M Cairns (96.3 FM) in , serving the tropical region with coverage extending to surrounding areas; Triple M Bendigo (93.5 FM) in central Victoria, broadcasting to the goldfields district and nearby towns; and Triple M Southwest (96.1 FM) in , which reaches the South West region including communities like and Margaret River. Frequencies generally fall within the FM band (87.5–108 MHz), with coverage areas designed to encompass specific local demographics, often using to enhance signal strength in challenging terrains. Operationally, regional Triple M stations employ a hybrid model combining locally produced content—such as dedicated breakfast shows and regional news bulletins—with syndicated national programming from the core network, including drive-time segments like . This approach ensures relevance to local listeners through community-specific announcements while maintaining the brand's signature mix of music, , and talk. These stations play a vital role in broadening Triple M's national footprint, bridging coverage gaps in underserved areas and fostering community ties via sponsorships of local events, sports, and initiatives that promote regional culture and economy.

Digital Stations

Triple M's digital stations represent an extension of the network's rock-focused programming into specialized genre channels, broadcast primarily via DAB+ and available for streaming. As of 2025, the network operates seven such stations, each curated with distinct playlists that diverge from the main FM network's contemporary rock format to emphasize specific eras or styles. These include Triple M Classic Rock, launched in 2013 and featuring 1970s and album-oriented rock from artists like Led Zeppelin and ; Triple M 80s, focusing on rock and pop-rock hits; Triple M Tradie Radio, featuring motivational 1990s and 2000s rock tracks targeted at tradespeople; Triple M 2000s, centered on early 2000s rock; Triple M 70s, dedicated to 1970s rock anthems from bands such as Queen and ; Triple M , offering country music from the 1990s onward, including contemporary artists like ; and Triple M Almost Acoustic, featuring acoustic versions of rock classics. In 2023, Triple M introduced Triple M Tradie Radio as a targeted addition, rebranding the existing Triple M 90s channel to appeal to tradespeople with a playlist of motivational 1990s and 2000s rock tracks from acts like Oasis, Nirvana, and AC/DC, supported by partnerships with XXXX beer and Mitsubishi Triton. This station remains available via DAB+ in major Australian cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, and Hobart, emphasizing high-energy content to accompany workdays. The curation of these digital stations prioritizes thematic consistency, with reduced spoken-word segments compared to the core network, allowing for deeper immersion in genre-specific music. DAB+ digital radio for Triple M's channels rolled out nationally starting in 2009, coinciding with Australia's launch of the DAB+ platform in capital cities, enabling multicast transmission alongside analog FM signals without interfering with primary broadcasts. These stations are accessible in all DAB+ markets—Adelaide, , , Darwin, Gold Coast, , Launceston, , Perth, and —supplementing the network's 43 stations with specialized audio options. Audience engagement with Triple M's digital stations has grown alongside broader digital radio adoption, with commercial radio's overall streaming reach increasing by 6.5% year-on-year to 12.5 million weekly listeners as of early 2025, driven by in-car and app-based consumption that complements traditional FM tuning. Digital platforms like LiSTNR have further boosted accessibility, contributing to the network's total weekly audience exceeding 4.9 million across all formats.

Programming

Music and Entertainment

Triple M's music programming centers on a mainstream and format, emphasizing tracks from the through the 2000s, with artists such as , Led Zeppelin, , and forming the core of its playlist. The network's stations feature a blend of rock anthems, live recordings, vinyl spins, and deeper album cuts, alongside approximately 30% current and recent rock releases to maintain relevance for contemporary listeners, including bands like . This structure allows for a dynamic rotation that prioritizes high-energy rock staples while introducing newer material to refresh the sound. Daily programming incorporates dedicated music segments, such as "Mornings with Mick," where host delivers a mix of classic tracks, music news updates, and artist interviews to kickstart the day. These features extend into podcasts like Triple M Rock, which provides in-depth coverage of Australian rock developments, exclusive interviews with musicians, and highlights from live performances. Listener engagement is enhanced through music-driven discussions that explore releases and industry trends, fostering a sense of community among rock enthusiasts. Entertainment beyond pure music playback includes light-hearted comedy sketches and interactive listener call-ins, often woven into music blocks to add humor and spontaneity. Hosts perform short comedic bits, such as prank calls or joke segments, which complement the rock playlist by creating memorable on-air moments that encourage audience participation. The network integrates elements from live gigs through post-event recaps and artist spotlights, bridging recorded music with real-world rock experiences without overshadowing routine broadcasts. Over the , Triple M evolved from a stricter (AOR) approach to a broader mainstream rock identity, launching the Triple M digital station in 2013 to cater specifically to fans while main stations diversified their playlists. This shift responded to listener preferences for variety, incorporating more accessible rock subgenres and digital expansions. By 2025, the emphasis on music-driven shows contributed to positive ratings outcomes in key markets, with Triple M securing the overall number one position in and maintaining strong shares in through integrated rock programming.

Talk Shows and Personalities

Triple M's talk shows form a core component of its programming, emphasizing syndicated and locally tailored content that blends humor with discussions on current affairs and . These programs typically air during and drive times, fostering listener interaction through calls, engagement, and audience polls to create a conversational atmosphere across the network. In 2025, breakfast shows maintain a local focus in major markets while incorporating national elements. Triple M Melbourne's lineup features the Mick in the Morning with Roo, Titus & Rosie, hosted by comedian , former AFL player , humorist Titus O'Reily, and broadcaster Rosie Walton, airing weekdays from 6-9 a.m. since January 20, 2025. In , Triple M Breakfast with Beau, Cat & Woodsy, led by TV personality , newsreader Cat Lynch, and ex-NRL star , airs weekdays from 6-9 a.m. since January 20, 2025, emphasizing footy banter and daily news. Brisbane's established Triple M Breakfast with Marto, Margaux & Dan continues its 5:30-9 a.m. slot, hosted by Marto (Greg Veitch), Margaux Parker, and Dan Haussmann, delivering regional insights with a comedic edge. Other cities prioritize local hosts to reflect community issues, with syndication allowing select segments to air nationally for broader reach. To cultivate emerging talent, Triple M introduced Pilot Week in late 2025, a national initiative running December 15-19, where five auditioning teams hosted experimental breakfast shows broadcast from 6-8 a.m. across the network. This first-of-its-kind search selected finalists from public submissions, with the winning show slated for potential inclusion in the 2026 lineup, highlighting the network's commitment to fresh voices in . Drive programming in 2025 expanded nationally for greater syndication, with The Marty Sheargold Show airing from 3-6 p.m. weekdays in , , and regional stations in and . Hosted by comedian , the program mixes satirical takes on news and pop culture with listener call-ins. Complementing this, The Rush Hour with JB & Billy extends to 4-6 p.m. across , , , Perth, and regional Victoria, featuring and in a sports-comedy format that includes game analysis and humorous segments. These shows integrate brief music breaks but prioritize dialogue-driven content. Key current personalities include , known for his irreverent style; Titus O'Reily, a sports satirist; and , whose podcast ranks highly in charts. Former hosts like , who co-hosted the national Triple M Breakfast from 2017 until his 2019 departure, brought sharp wit to morning slots, influencing the network's humorous tone. Other alumni, such as and , helped establish Triple M's legacy in blending entertainment with topical discussions during the and . Talk show formats on Triple M revolve around humor-infused conversations on current affairs, sports, and everyday life, encouraging active listener participation via open lines and digital feedback. Syndication enables popular segments, like satirical news rundowns or sketches, to resonate across stations, while local adaptations ensure relevance to regional audiences. This approach has sustained high engagement, with programs like The Rush Hour drawing on themes since its 2010 inception.

Special Events and Features

Triple M has organized several notable music events to engage its rock-focused audience, beginning with the M-One Rock festival in 2002. This one-day outdoor event series, produced in partnership with Frontier Touring, featured 14 major rock acts across four Australian cities—Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney—in September and October. The lineup included international headliners such as Garbage, Billy Idol, Goo Goo Dolls, Nickelback, and The Tea Party, alongside Australian favorites like Midnight Oil and The Whitlams. Designed to amplify the network's rock branding through live performances and on-air promotions, M-One drew significant crowds but resulted in financial losses of approximately $4.9 million, leading to its discontinuation after a single run. A cornerstone of Triple M's programming has been the Essential Countdown, an annual listener-voted ranking of the network's most essential rock songs, launched in late as the "Essential 2005" edition. Listeners submitted votes via phone, online, and later digital platforms to select from thousands of tracks, culminating in a multi-day broadcast counting down the top songs "ever written and recorded." The methodology emphasized rock classics and contemporary hits, with early editions featuring expansive lists—such as 2006 songs in —revealed progressively from October through December. Notable winners included ' "" at number one in 2005 and tracks frequently ranking high in subsequent years, reflecting the audience's preference for enduring Australian and international rock anthems. In addition to annual countdowns, Triple M has hosted seasonal music specials and integrated them with digital tools for greater interactivity. Summer initiatives, such as the 2019 made-for-radio festival series, broadcast exclusive live sessions and archival concerts from rock icons like Queen, , and , allowing listeners to request tracks via the station's app. More recently, events like the Sounds of Rock festival, presented by Triple M since at least 2023, bring together legendary Australian rock acts—such as , Chocolate Starfish, and —for all-day outdoor celebrations in regional areas like and . Voting for countdowns and event setlists now occurs primarily through the LiSTNR app, enhancing fan participation and extending reach beyond traditional radio. These special events and features have played a key role in fostering listener loyalty by creating communal experiences around rock music discovery and celebration. The Essential Countdown, in particular, built a tradition of audience-driven content that strengthened Triple M's identity as Australia's premier rock network. Post-2020, amid shifts in , the format evolved into themed series like the (Greatest Of All Time) Countdowns—covering songs, albums, years, and artists—maintaining the listener-vote model while adapting to digital streaming and integration for broader accessibility.

Sports Broadcasting

Australian Football League Coverage

Triple M has provided (AFL) coverage since 1997, when its Melbourne station secured the initial , marking the network's entry into live sports commentary on commercial FM radio. The coverage expanded nationally in 1999, establishing Triple M as a primary AFL broadcaster across multiple markets. Under a three-year rights extension announced for the 2025-2027 seasons, Triple M holds commercial FM rights in key areas including , , and Perth, enabling every game of every round to be broadcast live on its stations and the LiSTNR digital platform. The network's AFL programming centers on a mix of preview shows and live match-day broadcasts. The weekly Friday Huddle serves as a flagship preview program, airing on flagship stations and featuring hosts Mark Howard and Nathan Brown alongside rotating experts like Jason Dunstall and Damian Barrett to discuss matchups, team news, and strategic insights. Live commentary airs across the Triple M network during games, with dedicated AFL slots on metropolitan and regional stations to capture the season's action from Round 1 through the finals. Key elements of Triple M's AFL broadcasts include post-match player interviews for firsthand accounts, real-time stats analysis to break down performances, and contributions from former players providing tactical breakdowns. For the season, highlights encompassed full-season coverage leading to the Grand Final, where Mark Howard and Nathan Brown led the call as the defeated by 47 points (18.14.122 to 11.9.75), securing the club's second consecutive premiership in front of 100,022 fans at the . Triple M's AFL coverage resonates strongly in Victoria and South Australia, where it dominates listenership during the season. In Melbourne, the network achieved an 8.2% share in Survey 4 of 2025, ranking first among 25-54-year-olds amid finals fever. In Adelaide, Triple M retained a leading 14.3% share in Survey 6, underscoring its appeal in AFL heartlands and contributing to overall network growth during the premiership season.

National Rugby League Coverage

Triple M has provided (NRL) radio coverage since 2007, initially securing rights to broadcast Monday night games as the first FM station to do so, marking a significant expansion of rugby league audio access beyond traditional AM networks. This partnership with the Australian Rugby League Commission, under parent company (SCA), was extended in 2021 to cover audio broadcast rights until the end of 2027, ensuring comprehensive live match commentary, analysis, and ancillary programming across Triple M's metropolitan and regional stations. The network's NRL broadcasts feature dedicated commentary teams, including lead callers such as Dan Ginnane and expert analysts like , , and James Graham, who provide play-by-play action alongside post-match breakdowns. Key programs include the Triple M Rocks Footy NRL series, which offers daily insights from NRL figures, and specialized shows like Saturday Scrum and The Journos, focusing on match previews, player interviews, and fan interactions. State of Origin series receive heightened attention, with live coverage of all three games featuring extended pre- and post-match segments, such as the 2025 Game II broadcast led by Adam Peacock and co-commentators Hindmarsh and Tallis. Live match broadcasts are prioritized in core NRL markets of and , where Triple M Sydney (104.9 FM) and Triple M Brisbane (104.5 FM) air up to five games per round, including and fixtures, alongside fan-driven segments like listener call-ins and prediction contests during shows such as Sunday Sin Bin. These elements emphasize community engagement, with previews often incorporating fan questions and historical recaps to build excitement around club rivalries. In 2025, Triple M integrated NRL content more deeply into its national drive programming through localized shows tailored for NSW and QLD audiences, launching in April to deliver state-specific match analysis and traffic updates during peak commute times. This enhancement contributed to the network achieving the top rating for NRL coverage nationally, with an 11.2% share in Survey 6—more than double its closest competitor—driven by strong performances in (12.9% overall share) and sustained listener growth across SCA stations. weekend coverage remained a highlight, featuring full-day programming for both NRL and NRLW finals and contributing to record-breaking TV audiences for the season.

Cricket Coverage

Triple M's cricket broadcasting began in earnest with a partnership secured in 2009, providing coverage of major domestic and international matches until the station opted not to renew its contract with in May 2018. After a three-year hiatus, Triple M resumed rights in 2021, regaining exclusive FM metro broadcast access for events including series starting that December. This resumption encompassed live ball-by-ball commentary for Test matches, One Day Internationals, and T20 fixtures, with a particular emphasis on high-profile international series and the domestic (BBL). In July 2024, (SCA), Triple M's parent company, announced a new seven-year agreement with , extending the network's exclusive FM metro rights and adding digital audio streaming via LiSTNR through the 2030-31 season. Under this deal, Triple M delivers national coverage through syndication across its metropolitan stations and DAB+ digital radio, prioritizing summer schedules that feature comprehensive play-by-play for Australia's home internationals and select BBL games, such as 34 of 44 men's BBL matches per season. The broadcasts focus on key events like Test series against touring nations and domestic T20 competitions, ensuring wide accessibility for fans beyond traditional metro areas via streaming platforms. The commentary team is anchored by veteran broadcasters and Mark Taylor, both former Australian cricketers, who lead calls for major series with their blend of expert analysis and engaging narration. For the 2025-26 series, Triple M has incorporated special previews and on-air contributions from , the Australian women's captain, to provide insights into team preparations and match strategies ahead of the November start in Perth. Summer programming adjusts station lineups to accommodate live coverage, typically beginning at 2:00 p.m. AEST for ODIs and 7:00 p.m. AEST for T20s, with extended sessions for day-night Tests. Complementing the broadcasts, Triple M produces behind-the-scenes podcasts tied directly to the coverage, such as exclusive content featuring player interviews and series recaps available on LiSTNR, enhancing fan engagement during the off-air moments of international tours and BBL playoffs. These digital extensions, including the Triple M Cricket Podcast, offer post-match breakdowns and insider perspectives from commentators like Brayshaw and Taylor, maintaining momentum between live events.

Digital Presence

Online Platforms and Streaming

Triple M's official website, triplem.com.au, serves as a central digital hub for the network, providing detailed information on daily programming, music playlists from recent broadcasts, and access to event tickets for live shows and special appearances. Live audio streaming of Triple M stations is available directly through the website, integrated with Southern Cross Austereo's LiSTNR platform, enabling real-time listening across devices without geographic restrictions. On-demand audio clips from popular segments, interviews, and highlights became a key feature in the mid-2010s, allowing users to revisit content at their convenience via the same streaming service. The network actively integrates with social media platforms such as and to amplify promotions, share exclusive clips, and foster community engagement through contests and behind-the-scenes updates. In , Triple M reported substantial user growth, reaching more than 4.9 million weekly radio and on-demand listeners. User-facing features on the website and streaming portal include mobile-optimized interfaces for seamless access, personalized news feeds tailored to listener preferences, and tools for creating custom playlists drawn from the network's rock and catalog.

Podcasts and Apps

Triple M produces a variety of on-demand that extend its radio programming into digital formats, focusing on entertainment, , and sports analysis. One prominent example is The Marty Sheargold Show, a weekly featuring 's humorous takes on current events and pop culture, which aired from 2020 until its conclusion in February 2025 following the host's departure from the network. Sports-oriented form a core offering, with series like Triple M Rocks Footy AFL delivering daily episodes of match previews, player interviews, and expert commentary to engage fans during the Australian Football League season. These emphasize accessible, bite-sized content that complements Triple M's live broadcasts without overlapping into real-time streaming. The primary platform for accessing Triple M's podcasts is the LiSTNR app, developed and launched by (SCA) on February 18, 2021, as a centralized hub for radio, podcasts, music, and content. Exclusively hosting Triple M material alongside other SCA properties, the app has grown significantly, reaching over 2.4 million signed-in users and a monthly exceeding 10 million by 2025. It enables users to download episodes for offline listening, search curated playlists, and receive personalized recommendations based on listening habits, enhancing engagement with Triple M's and sports-focused audio. Podcast production occurs in-house at SCA studios, where episodes are often repurposed from flagship radio shows like The Rush Hour or created as standalone specials with guest appearances from athletes and commentators. A notable instance is the 2025 cricket series The Ashes Diaries on The Howie Games podcast, which featured exclusive previews and behind-the-scenes insights from players like Mitch Starc ahead of the Ashes series starting in November. This approach ensures high production quality and seamless integration with Triple M's sports broadcasting calendar. Monetization for Triple M podcasts relies on an ad-supported model, with dynamic audio advertisements inserted into episodes to generate while keeping the LiSTNR app entirely free for users. This structure supports broad , allowing listeners to enjoy exclusive content without subscription barriers, though select premium original podcasts within the app may offer enhanced features like ad-free options through targeted partnerships.

Controversies

On-Air Incidents

In March 2021, Triple M faced public backlash over a talkback segment on its nights program hosted by Danny Lakey, where listeners were invited to contribute ideas for building "the people's ," resulting in explicit and disrespectful comments toward women. The network quickly issued an apology, with content director Scott Menz stating that the remarks "fell below the standards we expect of our presenters and the Triple M brand." Similarly, another 2021 segment drew criticism for insensitivity after a caller pretended to be Chinese during a discussion on related issues, amplifying concerns about racial stereotyping and prompting complaints about the handling of such topics. A more prominent incident occurred in February 2025 on The Show, when host aired derogatory comments about the Australian women's national soccer team, the Matildas, comparing the players to " girls" and expressing disdain for in a manner deemed sexist and demeaning. Sheargold issued an on-air apology the following day, acknowledging the remarks as offensive, while the segment was immediately removed from broadcast and online platforms. This led to a temporary suspension of Sheargold, with (SCA), Triple M's parent company, confirming they had mutually agreed to part ways shortly thereafter to uphold content standards. SCA's responses across these incidents consistently involved swift content removal and public statements reaffirming commitment to decency, with executives emphasizing that such broadcasts did not reflect the network's values or audience expectations. In the wake of the 2021 controversies, SCA highlighted internal reviews to reinforce compliance with the Commercial Radio Code of Practice.

Regulatory Actions

In September 2025, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) concluded an investigation into comments made by presenter on his Triple M breakfast show in February 2025, regarding the Australian women's national soccer team, the Matildas. The ACMA determined that four (SCA) licensees—Triple M Sydney Pty Ltd, Triple M Brisbane Pty Ltd, Gold Coast FM Pty Ltd, and Maryborough Broadcasting Company Pty Limited—breached clause 2.2 of the Commercial Radio Code of Practice 2020, which mandates that broadcasts not offend against generally accepted standards of decency and propriety in language and content. The regulator described the remarks, which included comparing the Matildas to " girls," stereotyping female athletes, and references to genitalia in a degrading context, as demeaning, sexist, and lacking respect for women in sport, likely to cause widespread offense among listeners. As a result of the breach finding, the ACMA initiated consideration of formal enforcement action against the licensees, with outcomes to be publicly announced; however, no civil penalties or fines were imposed, consistent with the regulator's limited powers under the Broadcasting Services Act for code violations, which do not include monetary sanctions. The investigation highlighted the role of amplification in exacerbating the potential for offense, underscoring the need for broadcasters to monitor post-broadcast dissemination of content. In response to the incident, SCA terminated its relationship with Sheargold, though this was not a mandated regulatory requirement. Prior regulatory scrutiny of Triple M stations includes a 2020 ACMA investigation into comments by presenter on Triple M 105.1 Central West, which found a breach of decency standards for inflammatory language; the outcome involved a formal warning and remedial measures, but no additional license conditions were applied. While the ACMA maintains ongoing monitoring of commercial radio compliance, no further probes into misogynistic or racist content specific to Triple M in 2021 were documented in , though the regulator has emphasized updates across the industry to address such issues. Outcomes from these actions have reinforced stricter internal content guidelines at SCA, including enhanced pre-broadcast reviews, without imposing new license conditions on Triple M as of November 2025.

References

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