Major Aussie Network Announces Budget Cuts For Radio Talent In Response To COVID-19 Outbreak

Australian Radio Network (ARN) has today announced it has implemented new measures, including budget cuts to on-air talent and staff, in response to the coronavirus crisis. 

The network, which is home to stations including KIIS, Pure Gold, iHeartRadio and The Edge, has today confirmed that "all full-time staff will reduce their full-time equivalent working week by one day and that on-air talent will continue to broadcast five days a week as usual while taking a minimum of 10% reduction in fees across various cost control measures".

Some of the on-air talent on ARN includes Kyle and Jackie O on KIIS and Jonesy & Amanda on WSFM.

“Although ARN is in a strong position, like all media businesses our revenue has been significantly impacted by COVID-19," ARN CEO Ciaran Davis said in a statement.

“The priority of the Board and management team is the safety and wellbeing of all of our staff. These decisive measures have been put in place to protect jobs and ensure ARN remains in a strong position as a stable business - and employer - in the long term."

Davis, as well as the ARN Board and management team, are also taking a 20% reduction in salaries for an initial six month period and will forgo all incentive and bonus payments in 2020.

“During times when the nation needs a sense of community, connection and some normality, the power of radio is undisputed and we remain dedicated to providing the best possible content for our audiences and delivering solutions to our clients across broadcast radio, ondemand audio, and digital," Davis said.

"I am confident the measures we have implemented today will put ARN in the strongest position possible to endure and succeed in these uncertain times.”

The news comes just days after Radio Today reported that Australian radio ratings will be put on hold following the next survey (16 April) due to the restrictions related to COVID-19.