Bold shift for ABC Radio Perth: after a century on AM, the station moves to FM 102.5, sparking a broader rethink of Australian broadcast frequencies. But here’s where it gets controversial: does this swap truly solve long-standing reception issues, or is it a strategic move shaped by regulatory and technical constraints? Here’s a clear, beginner-friendly rewrite that keeps every key detail and adds context.
ABC Radio Perth has begun broadcasting on FM at 102.5, ending more than 100 years of AM transmissions. The change is being described by ABC executives as a response to transmission problems that affected listeners in the metropolitan area.
The station’s new official frequency is 102.5 FM. The former 720 AM channel is slated to be shut down permanently in late April.
Station manager Danielle Benda explained that the move will deliver a markedly improved listening experience for audiences in Perth. She noted that AM radio in the city has suffered from electrical interference and other reception issues, which FM can mitigate.
Benda added that FM offers a level of richness and clarity that has not been achievable on the AM band, underscoring the practical benefits of the switch.
This transition marks ABC Radio Perth’s departure from 102 years on the AM band. When it launched, the station was originally branded as 6WF and was established by Westralian Farmers (now Wesfarmers). Since June 1924, it has continued broadcasting under various frequency arrangements, sending its signal from a large transmission tower on a bush block in Hamersley that has been in use since the 1930s.
The FM switch is part of a broader set of changes announced by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for the FM band. As part of these changes, ABC Radio National will move from 810 AM to 103.3 FM, and NewsRadio will begin a simulcast on 104.1 FM. NewsRadio will still broadcast on 585 AM to meet legislative requirements for Federal Parliament proceedings on medium wave, as mandated by Commonwealth law.
Importantly, moving to 102.5 FM will not affect ABC Radio’s regional services, which will continue to broadcast on the AM band, nor will it impact the broadcaster’s digital and television services.
For those curious about the switch, ABC has released seven in-depth videos about the transition, hosted by reporter Pip Waller. These videos provide a behind-the-scenes look at what the move means for listeners and the station alike.
Do you think shifting more stations to FM improves overall accessibility and sound quality, or does it risk reducing reach for listeners in regional areas who rely on AM? Share your thoughts in the comments.
