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Sydney Community Radio Station 2SER Faces Potential Closure in July 2024

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Sydney's 2SER Community Radio Faces July 2024 Closure Threat

Sydney community radio station 2SER (Sydney Educational Radio) could cease operations as early as July 2024 due to a funding shortfall. The station's future is uncertain following Macquarie University's decision to withdraw its financial support this year, leaving co-owner the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) unable to fund the station alone. Management is actively exploring options to secure a new university partner or alternative long-term funding models to avoid closure.

Current Situation and Funding Crisis

Ownership and Funding: 2SER is jointly owned by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and Macquarie University. In October 2023, a Macquarie University spokesperson stated that funding the station "cannot be justified relative to the benefits delivered," and the university confirmed it would withdraw its funding in 2024.

Potential Closure Date: Station manager Cheryl Northey informed staff and volunteers that without secure funding, the station could close as early as July 2024.

Ongoing Efforts: UTS has stated it cannot fund the station independently. According to UTS Vice-Chancellor of External Engagement and Partnerships, Dr. Alana Piper, the university is working with 2SER to find a replacement partner for Macquarie, though efforts have not yet been successful. The station's board is also considering alternative long-term funding models.

Station Profile and Demographics

  • Foundation: Founded in 1979 by UTS and Macquarie University, 2SER holds a community radio license with a special interest in education.
  • Operations: The station operates with approximately 100 volunteers.
  • Audience: It reported 269,000 monthly listeners in 2023. Its audience includes a higher representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, LGBTQIA+, and culturally and linguistically diverse listeners compared to general population averages.

Statements from Involved Parties

"Should the station close this year, which could be as early as July, 2SER must do the right thing by our staff. A decision to close would not be taken lightly, and work is being done to avoid that outcome."
— Cheryl Northey, 2SER Station Manager

"Whilst efforts to find a partner have not yet been successful, we are hopeful that other universities that share a commitment to student learning and community engagement may step in."
— Dr. Alana Piper, UTS Vice-Chancellor of External Engagement and Partnerships

Robbie Buck, former ABC presenter and 2SER alumnus, described a potential closure as a "dire loss for the city of Sydney," noting the station's role in training media professionals and supporting local culture.

Presenter Stuart Coupe stated that losing 2SER would mean losing "one of the last giants of community radio in Sydney."

Jon Bisset, CEO of the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBAA), noted that financial challenges are sector-wide. He reported that the average community radio station in 2023 had operational costs equal to 103% of station income, a situation he described as unsustainable. He stated that new investments from private and public sources are required for the sector's sustainability.

Historical Significance and Cultural Impact

Pioneering Programming: 2SER began broadcasting in 1979. That same year, it launched Gaywaves, Sydney's first queer radio program, at a time when homosexual acts were illegal in New South Wales.

Support for Australian Music: The station reports that 55-60% of its music content is Australian. It provided early airplay for artists including Courtney Barnett and Gotye.

Career Launchpad: The station has supported the early careers of numerous media professionals and public figures. Alumni include politician Tanya Plibersek and media personalities Mike Williams, Eleanor Hall, and Richard Kingsmill.

Broader Sector Context

According to the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia, many community radio stations across Australia face financial sustainability challenges. Jon Bisset of the CBAA emphasized that stations provide social value beyond media career pathways, supporting local musicians, venues, festivals, and community groups.