Commercial Radio & Audio calls time on Australian Commercial Radio Awards

Commercial Radio and Audio (CRA) has confirmed the permanent cancellation of the Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs).

The industry body had already suspended the 2025 event earlier this year, pointing to rising costs and the financial impact of its ongoing legal battle with the PPCA over royalties. That suspension has now become permanent, with CRA redirecting funds into other initiatives and regulatory priorities.

Says Lizzie Young, CEO at CRA: “Our focus on long term sustainability across the industry needs to be our number one priority. After careful consideration in consultation with our Board and Members, we’re directing our resources into initiatives like Sound Start, CRA Audio ID and HEARD, and regulatory matters such as Radio Prominence where we can have the greatest impact supporting our industry’s future.

“Individual networks continue to celebrate the amazing work being done across our industry through their own recognition programs. This decision was not taken lightly, but I firmly believe radio has a bright and exciting future in Australia, and this positions us to build that future.”

Launched in 1989 as the RAWARDS before rebranding as the ACRAs, the annual event has long been the sector’s highest-profile celebration, recognising on-air talent and behind-the-scenes teams.