Commercial radio ad revenue was in positive territory in April up 8.8% compared to April 2021, according to data released by Commercial Radio Australia. Ad revenue for the five major Australian capital city markets totalled $56.184 million during the month compared to $51.636 million a year ago.

Ford Ennals, chief executive officer of CRA said the steady increase in ad revenue growth reflected key sectors rebounding post pandemic and turning to radio advertising to drive their business.

“The April commercial radio revenue shows sustained and strong growth. With Australians out and about again we’ve seen a wide range of business sectors rebounding such as travel, leisure, entertainment events and live music, resulting in higher levels of commercial radio spend.”

Mr. Ennals said election related advertising would have also positively impacted ad revenue figures. 

Melbourne stations reported a 13.7% year on year increase in ad revenue to $18.761 million in the month of April compared to last year.  Perth stations were also strong with a 13.3% increase to $7.443 million. Sydney was up 6.9% to $16.862 million, and Adelaide rose 5.4% to $5.046 million, Brisbane stations increased 0.9% to $8.072 million.

The figures include agency and direct ad revenue and were compiled by media data analytics company Milton Data.