Podcast listenership in Australia has surged, with average monthly listeners up nearly 9% in the first half of 2024 compared to last year, according to the first Australian Podcast Bi-Annual Report released by Commercial Radio & Audio and Triton Digital.
Podcasts, once primarily consumed during commutes and downtime, are now a staple in daily routines. Thursday has emerged as the peak day for listening, but audience engagement remains strong throughout the week. This growth is mainly due to the seamless integration of podcasts with mobile devices, making on-the-go listening more accessible.
CRA CEO Lizzie Young commented on the trend, saying, “For Australians navigating a fast-paced lifestyle, podcasts deliver unparalleled convenience with on-demand, personalized content that’s ready anytime and anywhere.”
Reshaping the entertainment landscape
The report also highlights how podcasts are reshaping the broader entertainment landscape. While society and culture, true crime, and news remain the most popular genres, there is a growing interest in health and fitness, education and family-friendly content, reflecting the medium’s expanding diversity.
Data compiled using Triton Digital’s Demo+ Podcast Audience Profiles shows that genre preferences differ by gender. Australian men are likelier to listen to comedy and sports, while women gravitate towards true crime, society and culture, health and fitness, education and kids/family. The report also notes that new podcast listeners are likelier to be aged 18-34.
Although younger audiences continue to drive podcast growth in Australia, listenership has increased across various age groups, particularly men aged 25-54. This demographic expansion underscores podcasts’ broadening appeal and potential to reach audiences that traditional media often misses.
You can read the full Australian Podcast Bi-Annual Report here.
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