Australian broadcast industry group Commercial Radio & Audio is pushing for the inclusion of radio in “smart devices like speakers and cars,” according to a release.
CRA CEO Ford Ennals is quoted as saying, “It is essential to both the radio industry and Australian communities that there is always free, easy, and universal access to Australian radio on smart speakers and in cars.” He added, “If Australians cannot easily access local radio during emergencies such as bushfires, storms, floods, or traffic incidents, it can be an issue of community safety.”
The issue has emerged due to a bill in the Australian Senate concerning the mandated inclusion over-the-air television on Smart TVs. CRA wants the concept to be expanded to radio on audio devices of most all types, especially smart devices.
The release explained: “CRA is asking for regulations to be introduced immediately for smart speakers, which could be applied to connected cars and other devices in the future.”
Ennals also said, “All Australians need easy access to local radio, whether they are using a smart speaker or driving a connected car.”
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