Narrowcast radio is a service that provides specialised and niche radio content, rather than programming of broad appeal. This can include radio services that are:
- available in a limited location
- broadcast for a limited time or for a special event
- targeted to special interest groups or audiences.
There are over 2,500 narrowcast radio services across Australia including open narrowcast radio (high power and low power) and subscription narrowcast radio.
Licensing
Narrowcast radio services must have a licence and comply with the conditions in the Broadcasting Services Act 1992and theRadiocommunications Act 1992.
You can learn more about narrowcasting licences on the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) website.
Codes of practice
The ACMA regulates narrowcast radio services in Australia, using industry codes of practice.
These codes help to:
- maintain standards for content
- provide guidelines for news and current affairs programs
- manage conflicts and complaints.
If you have a complaint about something you've heard on narrowcast radio, you must first contact the service directly. If you're not happy with the response, you can complain to the ACMA.
Last reviewed: 30 September 2026