{{Short description|Australian radio network}} {{Distinguish|Radio Australia}} {{Use dmy dates|date=May 2025}} {{use Australian English|date=February 2021}} {{Infobox radio station | name = ABC Radio National | logo = ABC Radio National (2025).svg | logo_upright = 0.7 | country = Australia | frequency = AM/FM: [https://www.radioheritage.com/ozrg/ Various]; DVB-T: Ch. 26; DAB+; online | airdate = {{start date and age|1923|12|05|df=yes}} | format = News, talk | language = English | owner = Australian Broadcasting Corporation | network = ABC Radio | licensing_authority = Australian Communications and Media Authority | former_names = ABC Radio 2 (1947–1985) | webcast = [https://radio.abc.net.au/stations/RN/live Live stream] | website = {{URL|abc.net.au/radionational/}} }} '''ABC Radio National''', more commonly known as '''Radio National''' or simply '''RN''', is an Australian nationwide public service radio network run by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). From 1947 until 1985, the network was known as '''ABC Radio 2'''.
==History== [[File:Joseph Lyons radio broadcast.jpg|thumb|upright|Prime Minister Joseph Lyons preparing to make a broadcast on 2FC Sydney]]
=== 1920s–1950s: Predecessors and beginnings === From 1928, the National Broadcasting Service, as part of the federal Postmaster-General's Department, gradually took over responsibility for all the existing stations that were sponsored by public licence fees ("A" Class licences). The outsourced Australian Broadcasting Company supplied programs from 1929. In 1932 a commission was established, merging the original ABC company and the National Broadcasting Service. It is from this time that Radio National dates as a distinct network within the ABC, in which a system of program relays was developed during the subsequent decades<!--Can someone check the period of development?--> to link stations spread across the nation.
The beginnings of Radio National lie with Sydney radio station 2FC,<ref>{{Cite web |title=2FC radio mast at Willoughby |url=http://naa16.naa.gov.au/rs_images/ShowImage.php?B=3025014&S=1&T=P |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110815141855/http://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/NaaMedia/ShowImage.asp?B=3025014&S=1&T=P |archive-date=15 August 2011 |access-date=29 April 2024}}</ref> which aired its first test broadcast on 5 December 1923 and officially went to air on 9 January 1924.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16112808 |title=Advertising |newspaper=Sydney Morning Herald |issue=26,836 |location=New South Wales, Australia |date=9 January 1924 |access-date=21 November 2021 |page=10 |via=National Library of Australia}}</ref> 2FC stood for Farmer and Company, the original owner of the station before the ABC bought the station in 1937.<ref name="transdiffusion">{{cite web |title=Tuning In Down Under - International radio |website=Transdiffusion Broadcasting System |first=Glenn |last=Aylett |date=9 April 2007 |url=https://www.transdiffusion.org/2007/04/09/tuning_in_down |access-date=16 February 2021 }}</ref>
The ABC then rolled out a national network across the country, somewhat similar in nature to the BBC National Programme.<ref name="transdiffusion" /> The origins of the other stations in the network were: <!---All of these call signs should redirect to Radio National#History.---> * 3AR Melbourne – 26 January 1924 "Associated Radio Company of Australia", organised by Esmond Laurence Kiernan and others.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20060222081507/http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/onthisday/decade.cfm?d=1920 On This Day] Vic Parliament</ref><ref>[http://radiodx.com/spdxr/aussie_callsigns.htm Aussie Callsigns] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061023033957/http://radiodx.com/spdxr/aussie_callsigns.htm |date=23 October 2006 }} at RadioDX</ref> * 5CL Adelaide – 20 November 1924 "Central Broadcasters Ltd". * 7ZL Hobart – 17 December 1924. * 4QG Brisbane – 27 July 1925 "Queensland Government" (operated by the Queensland Radio Service, an agency within the Office of the Chief Secretary). * 6WN Perth – 5 October 1938 "Wanneroo". * 2CY Canberra – 23 December 1938. * 2NA Newcastle – 20 December 1943.
The first transmitters for 2FC, 5CL and 4QG were made by AWA with power of 5 kW{{efn|Until about 1931 in Australia, transmitter powers were defined in terms of DC input to the final amplifier, typically about three times that of the power into the antenna; thus power today would be stated as about 1.7 kW.}} They used a MT7A valve for the final high power RF stage and a MT7B for the modulator. The power supply was 12,000 volts from three-phase power rectified by MR7 valves. 4QG commenced with a 500 Watt transmitter which continued for about 6 months until the 5 kW unit was commissioned.<ref name="Muscio 1984">{{cite book |title=Australian Radio the Technical Story 1923–83 |first=Winston T. |last=Muscio |date=1984 |publisher=Kangaroo Press |isbn=0-949924-82-2 }}</ref>{{Rp|66}}
The radio transmitters for 3AR and 2FC were upgraded to 10 kW in a contract let in 1938 to STC. The transmitters were designed by Charles Strong in London, and were notable in using negative feedback to ensure a high quality flat frequency response.<ref name="Muscio 1984" />{{Rp|68}}
The power level of 2FC and 3AR was upgraded to 50 kW in the early 1950s. The transmitters for these were housed in the same building as the Radio 1 network. They were manufactured by STC. The final stage contained three parallel 3J/261E air cooled triodes running in class C amplifier at 90% efficiency. These were driven by a class B push-pull modulator with the same type of valves.<ref name="Muscio 1984" />{{Rp|76}}
===1960s–1980s: Broadcast network expansion=== In the 1970s, the network's program format began to take on a more serious tone, a style which continues to this day. Art critic Peter Timms later remarked that the network is "virtually the only non-print media forum for art in this country".<ref>Timms, Peter. ''What's wrong with contemporary art?'' 2004, University of New South Wales Press, {{ISBN|0-86840-407-1}}, p. 102</ref>
In the early 1980s the broadcast footprint was extended with the construction of the first of over 300 regional FM transmitters (including community re-broadcast sites).{{citation needed|date=February 2021}} In 1985, the ABC renamed "Radio 2" as "Radio National".<ref name=abc80s>{{cite web | title=About the ABC – The 80s | publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation | url=http://abc.net.au/corp/history/hist6.htm | archive-url=https://archive.today/20121208165604/http://abc.net.au/corp/history/hist6.htm | url-status=dead |archive-date=8 December 2012 |access-date=1 October 2007 }}</ref><ref name=transdiffusion/>
===1990s: Unified branding=== Since 1990, all Radio National stations have had the same callsign, "RN".<ref name=abc80s/>
As a result of cuts in the 1996–97 budget, Radio National was hit with a reduction of a million dollars in its funding<!--more helpful to know the percentage reduction-->, with a significant impact on programming.<ref>[http://www.aph.gov.au/library/pubs/budget/1996-97/1996-97BR04.HTM Budget Review 1996–97] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120215161347/http://www.aph.gov.au/library/pubs/budget/1996-97/1996-97BR04.HTM |date=15 February 2012 }} Parliament House</ref>
=== 2000s–2010s: Funding and programming cuts === In 2008, controversial programming changes once more raised the issue of funding cuts to the public broadcaster.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://theland.farmonline.com.au/news/metro/national/general/abc-flagship-radio-shows-axed/1334972.aspx|title=ABC flagship radio shows axed|work=Land|publisher=Farm Online|date=16 October 2008|access-date=1 April 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110706103944/http://theland.farmonline.com.au/news/metro/national/general/abc-flagship-radio-shows-axed/1334972.aspx|archive-date=6 July 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/news/general/anger-as-abc-axes-specialist-programs-from-radio-national/1335009.aspx|title=Anger as ABC axes specialist programs from Radio National|work=Canberra Times|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=16 October 2008|access-date=1 April 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111004151524/http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/news/general/anger-as-abc-axes-specialist-programs-from-radio-national/1335009.aspx|archive-date=4 October 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/10/15/2392185.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081016002712/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/10/15/2392185.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 October 2008|title=Programs axed amid Radio National reshuffle|work=ABC News|publisher=ABC|date=15 October 2008|access-date=1 April 2011}}</ref><ref>[http://www.abc.net.au/services/podcasting/subject_Religion.htm] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081102060818/http://www.abc.net.au/services/podcasting/subject_Religion.htm|date=2 November 2008}}</ref> Presenter Stephen Crittenden leaked confidential programming changes in an unscheduled live broadcast before the start of his show, criticising his superiors.<ref>[http://mpegmedia.abc.net.au/rn/podcast/current/audioonly/rrt_20081015.mp3]{{dead link|date=April 2011}}</ref> He was suspended for his outburst,<ref>[http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/story/0,26278,24526865-10388,00.html] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081022082408/http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/story/0%2C26278%2C24526865-10388%2C00.html|date=22 October 2008}}</ref> and his unscripted comments were cut from Radio National's podcast and transcript of the program. Religious commentator Paul Collins on crikey.com subsequently echoed Crittenden's fears.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.crikey.com.au/Media-Arts-and-Sports/20081015-What-are-they-doing-to-Radio-National-God-help-us.html?source=kwoff|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120904041900/http://www.crikey.com.au/Media-Arts-and-Sports/20081015-What-are-they-doing-to-Radio-National-God-help-us.html?source=kwoff|url-status=dead|archive-date=4 September 2012|title=What are they doing to Radio National? God help us!|publisher=Crikey|date=15 October 2008|access-date=1 April 2011}}</ref> Crittenden was reinstated in 2009 as a reporter on ''Background Briefing'', after a settlement was reached.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://blogs.theaustralian.news.com.au/mediadiary/index.php/australianmedia/comments/religion_reporter_stephen_crittenden_still_on_air_but_not_live/|title=???|website=The Australian|access-date=8 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090503155054/http://blogs.theaustralian.news.com.au/mediadiary/index.php/australianmedia/comments/religion_reporter_stephen_crittenden_still_on_air_but_not_live|archive-date=3 May 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, his program and the other eight programs that had been cancelled or merged were not re-instated that year. The head of ABC Radio, Sue Howard, was dismissed in 2009.<ref>{{cite web|first=Margaret|last=Simons|url=http://www.crikey.com.au/Media-Arts-and-Sports/20081217-Sue-Howard.html|title=Goodbye Sue Howard, hello ABC restructure?|publisher=Crikey|date=17 December 2008|access-date=1 April 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081222064854/http://www.crikey.com.au/Media-Arts-and-Sports/20081217-Sue-Howard.html|archive-date=22 December 2008}}</ref>
In January 2012 Radio National was rebranded as RN, partly in recognition of the station's growing digital audience. RN has also been used as shorthand for the station's name by many presenters going back several years. RN's tagline, which has changed regularly over the years, was also changed to "Your World Unfolding" to mesh with the station's new logo and visual identity.{{citation needed|date=February 2021}}
In 2012 a new ''Religion and Ethics Report'' was launched, hosted by Andrew West. The ''Media Report'' was also relaunched, hosted by broadcaster and former Life Matters host Richard Aedy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/features/2012-lineup/3686336|title=Radio National announces new 2012 lineup|publisher=Radio National|date=23 January 2012|access-date=17 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120726081229/http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/features/2012-lineup/3686336|archive-date=26 July 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> The ''Media Report'' was, however, cancelled again in 2015.<ref>{{cite news|title=The Weekly Beast: ABC Radio National dumps Richard Aedy's Media Report|url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/2015/nov/19/the-weekly-beast-abc-radio-national-dumps-richard-aedys-media-report|access-date=5 March 2017|work=The Guardian|date=19 November 2015}}</ref>
In late 2016, the new head of the ABC Michelle Guthrie defended the removal of staff and programmes from the Radio National 2017 schedule, with the scope of the new year's lineup culled due to budget cuts with consequent staff and programming reductions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/2016/dec/09/jaws-drop-at-abc-as-michelle-guthrie-defends-radio-national-cuts|title=Jaws drop at ABC as Michelle Guthrie defends Radio National cuts – Weekly Beast|first=Amanda|last=Meade|date=8 December 2016|website=the Guardian}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/2016/nov/16/radio-national-to-lose-eight-staff-as-abc-cuts-several-programs-from-2017-schedule|title=Radio National to lose eight staff as ABC cuts several programs from 2017 schedule|first=Amanda|last=Meade|date=15 November 2016|website=the Guardian}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/2016/dec/07/abc-board-demands-director-of-radio-explain-radio-national-cuts|title=ABC board demands director of radio explain Radio National cuts|first=Amanda|last=Meade|date=7 December 2016|website=the Guardian}}</ref>
=== 2020s: Major changes ===
==== 2025 Relaunch ==== In November 2024, Radio National announced new programmes and schedule designed to relaunch the station in 2025 as "the centre of big conversations and create a space where audiences can expand their worldview while engaging with the world’s best thinkers". This was the biggest slate of changes and the largest announcement of new programmes since the 2017 upheaval and cuts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 November 2024 |title=ABC Radio National in 2025: Always Curious |url=https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/abc-radio-national-in-2025-always-curious/104631714 |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=About the ABC }}</ref>
The new programming schedule commenced on 20 January 2025. The station also changed its logo from the previous "RN" logo to a new "Radio National" logo.
Among the major changes to the station programming included: The return of previous ''Radio National Breakfast'' host Fran Kelly with a new news magazine programme at 6{{nbsp}}p.m. weeknights called the ''Radio National Hour''<ref>{{Cite news |last=Meade |first=Amanda |date=21 November 2024 |title=ABC radio shakeup: Fran Kelly to host new show as Sarah Macdonald dumped from Sydney morning program |url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/2024/nov/21/abc-radio-changes-sarah-macdonald-sydney-mornings-fran-kelly |access-date=1 February 2025 |work=The Guardian |issn=0261-3077}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=31 January 2025 |title=The Radio National Hour with Fran Kelly |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/the-radio-national-hour |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=ABC listen }}</ref> and a revamped ''Radio National Breakfast,'' broadcast each weekday from the earlier time of 5:30{{nbsp}}a.m. with Sally Sara as host.
The new ''Breakfast'' format now included news presenter Luke Siddham Dundon, Canberra-based political correspondent Melissa Clarke and business correspondent Peter Ryan in addition to Sara. The program was changed to model BBC Radio 4's ''Today'' programme, with more serious national and international news covered, as well as live crosses to Clarke and Ryan for politics and business coverage throughout the programme.<ref>{{Cite news |date=31 October 2024 |title=Sally Sara to replace Patricia Karvelas as host of ABC Radio National Breakfast |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-01/sally-sara-new-presenter-radio-national-2025/104547772 |access-date=1 February 2025 |work=ABC News }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Jaspan |first=Calum |date=31 October 2024 |title=Kim Williams' BBC dream comes to life at Radio National |url=https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/abc-s-radio-national-breakfast-gets-new-start-time-host-20241101-p5kn27.html |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald }}</ref>
As part of the change to the schedule, some long-running programmes were cancelled. Afternoon news magazine programme ''RN Drive'' was also axed in favour of Kelly's ''Radio National Hour,''<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 January 2025 |title=RN Drive with Andy Park |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/radionational-drive |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=ABC listen }}</ref> with host Andy Park now hosting the daily afternoon news and current affair show ''The World Today'', previously hosted by Sara.<ref name="RadioInfo">{{Cite web |date=21 November 2024 |title=A Big Day of ABC Radio Movement |url=https://radioinfo.com.au/news/a-big-day-of-abc-radio-movement/ |website=RadioInfo.com.au |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250201095352/https://radioinfo.com.au/news/a-big-day-of-abc-radio-movement/ |archive-date=1 February 2025 |url-status=live |access-date=21 May 2025 }}</ref>
Economics programme ''The Money'', hosted by Richard Aedy, was cancelled and replaced by new programme ''The Economy, Stupid''<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 January 2025 |title=The Money with Richard Aedy |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/themoney |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=ABC listen }}</ref> hosted by Peter Martin. Lifestyle and design programme ''Blueprint for Living'' was discontinued, with host Jonathan Green now hosting a new weekly food programme, ''Every Bite''.<ref name="abc.net.au">{{Cite web |date=21 January 2025 |title=Blueprint For Living with Jonathan Green |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/blueprintforliving |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=ABC listen }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=31 January 2025 |title=Every Bite with Jonathan Green |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/every-bite |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=ABC listen }}</ref>
Rural affairs news magazine programme ''Australia Wide'' (which previously aired at 6:30{{nbsp}}p.m. weeknights) is no longer broadcast on Radio National, with Kelly's programme broadcasting during its previous time slot. ''Australia Wide'' is still broadcast on ABC Local Radio stations in regional areas outside capital cities.<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 January 2025 |title=Australia Wide with Sinéad Mangan |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/australia-wide |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=ABC listen }}</ref>
Other changes to the Radio National schedule in 2025 included:<ref name="Broadcast Schedule">{{Cite web |title=Broadcast Schedule |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/radionational/guide |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=ABC Radio National }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=21 November 2024 |title=ABC Radio National in 2025: Always Curious |url=https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/abc-radio-national-in-2025-always-curious/104631714 |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=About the ABC }}</ref><ref>https://live-production.wcms.abc-cdn.net.au/893c6bfc1fcf965cba94cd722f439d96</ref>
* The ''PM'' programme returning to 5{{nbsp}}p.m. weekdays, made possible the cancellation ''RN Drive'' which previously aired from 4{{nbsp}}p.m. to 5:30{{nbsp}}p.m. weekdays. * After ''PM'', the specialist programmes that previously aired at 6{{nbsp}}p.m. returning to their previous 5.30{{nbsp}}p.m. slot, including ''Global Roaming'' on Mondays, ''Law Report'' on Tuesdays, ''Religion and Ethics Report'' on Wednesdays, new programs ''The Economy, Stupid'' on Thursdays and ''MediaLand'' on Fridays. Previous Friday programme ''Download this Show'', with new host Rae Johnston (replacing Marc Fennell), now first airs at 8{{nbsp}}p.m. each Friday night. * Visual arts programme ''The Art Show'' (hosted by Daniel Browning) halved to 30 minutes on Wednesdays at 10{{nbsp}}a.m. This is followed by new weekly arts news programme ''Arts in 30'' (also hosted by Browning) at 10:30{{nbsp}}a.m. * A new programme focused on scientific research ''Lab Notes'' hosted by Belinda Smith<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 January 2025 |title=Lab Notes with Belinda Smith |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/lab-notes |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=ABC listen }}</ref> * ''TGIF'', previously hosted by Richard Glover (and only airing on ABC Radio Sydney each Friday at 5{{nbsp}}p.m.), also airing on Radio National (on delay) on Friday evenings at 7{{nbsp}}p.m. with new host Charlie Pickering broadcasting from Melbourne. The show also airs on ABC Radio Melbourne live at the same time as Sydney.<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 January 2025 |title=Thank God It's Friday! with Charlie Pickering |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/tgif |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=ABC listen }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=21 November 2024 |title=Brigitte Duclos joins 774 ABC Melbourne in 2025 |url=https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/brigitte-duclos-joins-774-abc-melbourne-in-2025/104631580 |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=About the ABC }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=19 January 2025 |title=TGIF! with Charlie Pickering |url=https://www.abc.net.au/melbourne/tgif-with-charlie-pickering/104836924 |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=ABC Melbourne }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Patterson |first=Sarah |date=21 November 2024 |title=Chris Bath and Charlie Pickering join ABC Radio Sydney for 2025 |url=https://radiotoday.com.au/chris-bath-and-charlie-pickering-join-abc-radio-sydney-for-2025/ |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=Radio Today }}</ref> * Hilary Harper (Mondays to Wednesday) and Cassie McCullagh (Thursday to Friday) broadcasting live between midday and 4{{nbsp}}p.m. each weekday, linking programmes and podcasts as part of an effort to return Radio National to a "live, flow format", with the live-to-air host interacting with listeners' text messages and correspondence during the afternoon. This also allows Radio National to air podcasts and programmes that are shorter than 30 minutes, with Harper and McCullagh able to fill air time responding to the audience and content.<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 November 2024 |title=ABC Radio National in 2025: Always Curious |url=https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/abc-radio-national-in-2025-always-curious/104631714 |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=About the ABC }}</ref><ref name="Broadcast Schedule"/>
Ben Latimer, the ABC's Director of Audio told Australian marketing and media industry news website ''Mumbrella'' that the 2025 changes was ABC Radio National's reaffirming of "its role as Australia’s premier audio gateway, offering audiences a window into the rich tapestry of intellectual and creative life in this country".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jolly |first=Nathan |date=21 November 2024 |title=Fran Kelly returns to Radio National; Tim Burrowes to debut new media show on ABC RN |url=https://mumbrella.com.au/fran-kelly-returns-to-radio-national-while-tim-burrowes-will-debut-new-media-show-on-abc-rn-857300 |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=Mumbrella }}</ref>
In May 2025, Radio National announced a new annual countdown called the Top 100 Books, similar to Triple J's Hottest 100. Each year will have a different theme, with the 2025 countdown being the Top 100 Books of the 21st Century.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Books |first=Anna Levy for ABC Radio National's Top 100 |date=2025-10-01 |title=Australia's favourite authors share their top books of the 21st century |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-10-02/radio-national-top-100-books-favourite-authors-21st-century/105835904 |access-date=2025-10-18 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU}}</ref>
==== 2026 Changes ==== In 2026, Radio National further tweaked their program schedule particularly its arts, science and global affairs programs.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-12-10 |title=Global Affairs, Arts and Science take centre stage on ABC Radio National in 2026 |url=https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/global-affairs-arts-and-science-take-centre-stage-on-abc-radio-n/106125112 |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=About the ABC |language=en-AU}}</ref>
Changes to the programs and schedule included<ref>{{Cite web |title=Broadcast Schedule |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/radionational/guide |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC Radio National |language=en-AU}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date= |title=Radio National 2026 Program Schedule |url=https://live-production.wcms.abc-cdn.net.au/dd91ad2dd895c937a7178aafd70b44ba |access-date=1 May 2026 |website=ABC Radio National}}</ref>:
* ''Radio National Breakfast'' returned to its previous timeslot of 6 a.m. to 9 a.m weekdays. At 5:30 a.m. on weekdays, the news podcast ''ABC News Daily'' is broadcast followed by replays of interviews from the previous night's ''Radio National Hour'' introduced by Fran Kelly.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-12-10 |title=Global Affairs, Arts and Science take centre stage on ABC Radio National in 2026 |url=https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/global-affairs-arts-and-science-take-centre-stage-on-abc-radio-n/106125112 |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=About the ABC |language=en-AU}}</ref> * The 10 a.m. weekday Arts content block was refreshed with the discontinuation of ''The Arts Show'', ''The Stage Show'' and Arts in 30. Instead the hour was restructured<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-12-10 |title=Global Affairs, Arts and Science take centre stage on ABC Radio National in 2026 |url=https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/global-affairs-arts-and-science-take-centre-stage-on-abc-radio-n/106125112 |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=About the ABC |language=en-AU}}</ref>: ** On Mondays to Wednesdays, Hilary Harper hosts live to introduce arts programs and then host the last 15-30 minutes of the hour with live arts interviews on films, tv shows, stage productions and cultural topics in an arts segment called ''Critics Corner''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-29 |title=Critics Corner with Hilary Harper |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/critics-corner |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> ** ''The Book Show'' is reduced to 40 minutes and broadcast in the first half of 10 a.m. on Mondays followed by ''Critics Corner''. This hour is replayed on Saturday evenings at 9 p.m.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-26 |title=The Book Show with Claire Nichols |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/the-book-show |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> ** A new architecture and design program, ''Anthony Burke’s By Design''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-29 |title=Anthony Burke's By Design with Anthony Burke |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/anthony-burke-by-design |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> which runs for 40 minutes replaced ''The Stage Show.'' The show is broadcast during the first half of 10 a.m on Tuesdays followed by ''Critics Corner''. The whole hour is replayed on Sunday mornings at 10 a.m.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Broadcast Schedule |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/radionational/guide |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC Radio National |language=en-AU}}</ref> ** The previous Saturday's food program ''Every Bite with Jonathan Green''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-24 |title=Every Bite with Jonathan Green |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/every-bite |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> is replayed during the first half of 10 a.m. on Wednesday mornings, followed by live interviews on ''Critics Corner.''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Broadcast Schedule |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/radionational/guide |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC Radio National |language=en-AU}}</ref> ** On Thursdays, ''The Screen Show''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-29 |title=The Screen Show with Jason Di Rosso |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/the-screen-show |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> remains unchanged from previous years, but Friday's ''The Bookshelf''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-24 |title=The Bookshelf with Kate Evans and Cassie McCullagh |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/the-bookshelf |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> is now a replay of the previous Saturday's show. New episodes of ''The Bookshelf'' are now broadcast on Saturdays at 10 a.m. instead of Fridays. * As a result of the 10 a.m. weekday program changes, Hilary Harper (Monday to Wednesday) and Cassie McCullagh (Thursday to Friday) now broadcast live from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. * ''Global Roaming'', previously hosted by Geraldine Doogue and Hamish Macdonald expanded from weekly episodes to daily weekday episodes with Kylie Morris and Latika Bourke joining as co-hosts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-12-10 |title=Global Affairs, Arts and Science take centre stage on ABC Radio National in 2026 |url=https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/global-affairs-arts-and-science-take-centre-stage-on-abc-radio-n/106125112 |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=About the ABC |language=en-AU}}</ref> The program is now broadcast at 11 a.m. weekdays and replayed at 9 p.m. on weeknights with two out of the four hosts co-hosting each episode on a rotating basis.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-05-01 |title=Global Roaming with Geraldine Doogue and Hamish Macdonald and Kylie Morris and Latika Bourke |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/global-roaming |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> * A dedicated science timeslot<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-12-10 |title=Global Affairs, Arts and Science take centre stage on ABC Radio National in 2026 |url=https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/global-affairs-arts-and-science-take-centre-stage-on-abc-radio-n/106125112 |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=About the ABC |language=en-AU}}</ref> was established at 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. after ''The World Today'' with episodes of: ** ''The Science Show'' replayed on Mondays (cut down to 30 minutes for this timeslot but the original hour is still broadcast in its original Saturday 12 p.m. timeslot).<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-30 |title=The Science Show with Robyn Williams and Belinda Smith |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/scienceshow |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> ** ''What the Duck?!'' replayed on Tuesdays<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-30 |title=What The Duck?! with Ann Jones |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/what-the-duck |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> ** ''Science Friction''<ref>{{Cite web |last=National |first=Brought to you byABC Radio |date=2026-04-15 |title=Science Friction |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/sciencefriction |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> replayed (seasonal series, if there are no episodes, then BBC World Service's Crowdscience is broadcast) on Wednesdays ** ''All in the Mind'' replayed on Thursdays<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-25 |title=All In the Mind with Sana Qadar |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/allinthemind |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> ** ''What's That Rash''?<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-28 |title=What's That Rash? with Norman Swan and Tegan Taylor |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/whats-that-rash |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> on Fridays and a new episode of ''Lab Notes''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-30 |title=Lab Notes with Jonathan Webb |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/lab-notes |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> (now hosted by Jonathan Webb) is broadcast afterwards at 1:45 p.m. * ''The Science Show''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-30 |title=The Science Show with Robyn Williams and Belinda Smith |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/scienceshow |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> remains at 12 p.m. on Saturdays but added Belinda Smith to co-host with longtime host Robyn Williams.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-12-10 |title=Global Affairs, Arts and Science take centre stage on ABC Radio National in 2026 |url=https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/global-affairs-arts-and-science-take-centre-stage-on-abc-radio-n/106125112 |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=About the ABC |language=en-AU}}</ref> * ''The Music Show''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-04-26 |title=The Music Show with Andrew Ford |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/musicshow |access-date=2026-05-01 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> moved from 10 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
==Description==
Radio National broadcasts national programming in subjects that include news and current affairs, the arts, social issues, science, drama and comedy. Some programs are relayed on Radio Australia, the ABC's international broadcasting service which was transmitted on shortwave until January 2017, as well as 24-hour FM stations, local relay stations and live satellite.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://about.abc.net.au/press-releases/shortwave-radio/ |title=ABC Exits Shortwave Radio Transmission |website=About the ABC |access-date=5 December 2018 }}</ref>
All radio programs are available for live streaming over the Internet, and most (excluding drama, poetry and music) as audio-on-demand, or for download as MP3s for at least four weeks after broadcast. Some programs are available as MP3s going back to 2005, when Radio National commenced podcasting.{{citation needed|date=February 2021}}
==Selected programs== <!---please do not change heading name without changing the multiple redirects that target it---> Some of the following programs, listed in order of start date, are aired on both Radio National and ABC Local Radio networks. * ''Boyer Lectures'' (1959–present) * ''PM'' (1969–present) * ''Correspondents Report'' (before 1974–c.2019)<ref name=correx1/><ref name=correx2/> * ''The Science Show'' (1975–present, Robyn Williams)<ref name="Johnson 2022">{{cite web | last=Johnson | first=Natasha | website=ABC News | title =Robyn Williams, host of ABC RN's The Science Show, on 50 years of broadcasting and the day Norman Swan saved his life |date=29 May 2022 | url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/backstory/2022-05-28/robyn-williams-50-years-abc-science-norman-swan-saved-his-life/101104326 | publisher =Australian Broadcasting Corporation |access-date=29 May 2022}}</ref> * ''The Coming Out Show'' (1975–{{circa}}1998) * ''Radio Helicon'' (1981-?), N.B. championed by renowned poet Les Murray * ''Ockham's Razor'' (1984–present, Robyn Williams, then Tegan Taylor)<ref name="Johnson 2022" /> * ''The Health Report'' (1985–present, Norman Swan and Tegan Taylor)<ref>{{cite web | last=Schmidt | first=Lucinda | title=Profile: Norman Swan | website=The Sydney Morning Herald |date=25 August 2010 | url=https://www.smh.com.au/money/investing/profile-norman-swan-20100825-13r34.html |access-date=19 August 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Health Report with Dr Norman Swan and Tegan Taylor | website=ABC Listen | url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport |access-date=19 August 2023}}</ref> * ''Late Night Live'' (1991–2024,Phillip Adams; 2024–present, David Marr) * ''The Music Show'' (1991–present, Andrew Ford since 1995)<ref name=30yrsmusic>{{cite web | title=ABC Radio National's The Music Show clocks up 30 years on air| website=ABC News|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=14 February 2021 | url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/backstory/2021-02-15/30-years-of-the-music-show-abc-rn/13154010 |access-date=17 February 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Music show team | website=ABC Radio National | url=https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/musicshow/music-show-team/7561486 |access-date=17 February 2021}}</ref> * ''The Live Set'' (1986–2017) * ''The Listening Room'' (1988–2003) * ''Life Matters'' (1992–present) * ''Awaye!'' (8 February 1993–present), an Indigenous art and culture program<ref>{{cite web | title=For 30 years Awaye! has reflected Indigenous culture through the arts | website=ABC listen |date=4 February 2023 | url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/awaye/30-years-of-awaye/101927712 |access-date=3 September 2024| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240903064229/https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/awaye/30-years-of-awaye/101927712|archive-date= 3 September 2024| url-status=live}}</ref> presented by Rudi Bremer {{as of|lc=yes|September 2024}}<ref>{{cite web | title=Awaye! with Rudi Bremer | website=ABC listen |date=31 August 2024 | url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/awaye |access-date=3 September 2024}}</ref> * ''Radio Eye'' (1993–2009, Brent Clough)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Byline |title=Brent Clough |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/radionational/brent-clough/2913802 |access-date=2025-09-18 |website=ABC Radio National |language=en-AU}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Clough |first=Brought to you byABC Radio NationalPresented byBrent |date=2009-01-31 |title=Radio Eye with Brent Clough |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/radioeye |access-date=2025-09-18 |website=ABC listen |language=en-AU}}</ref> * ''Radio National Breakfast'' (1994–present, Peter Thompson 1994–2005, then Fran Kelly 2005–2021, Patricia Karvelas 2022–2024, Sally Sara 2025–present) * ''Arts Today'' (1994–1996, David Marr) * ''Conversations'' (2012–present) * ''The National Interest'' (1995–2011, Terry Lane, Peter Mares) * ''Sound Quality'' (1995–2015, Tim Ritchie) * ''The World Today'' (1999–present) * ''Bush Telegraph'' (2001–2014) * ''Big Ideas'' (c.2002–2023, Paul Barclay, 2023–present Natasha Mitchell<ref>{{Cite web |last=Patterson |first=Sarah |date=23 March 2023 |title=Natasha Mitchell to host the ABC's Big Ideas podcast |url=https://radiotoday.com.au/natasha-mitchell-to-host-the-abcs-big-ideas-podcast/ |access-date=1 February 2025 |website=Radio Today }}</ref>) * ''Speaking Out'' (1990–present, Larissa Behrendt)<ref>{{cite web | title=Speaking Out, with Larissa Behrendt | website=ABC Radio | url=https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/speakingout/ |access-date=2 December 2021}}</ref> * ''The Night Air'' (2002–2013, Brent Clough - producer and main presenter, Tony Barrell, Diane Dean, John Jacobs) * ''All in the Mind'' (c.2003–present) * ''Counterpoint'' (2004–2024, Michael Duffy, Paul Comrie-Thomson, Brendan O'Neill, Tom Switzer, Amanda Vanstone, and other right-wing figures) * ''Future Tense'' (2009–present, Antony Funnell)<ref>{{cite web |last=Bhatt |first=Neerav |title=Behind the Scenes of Radio National Future Tense |website=Electrifying Everything |date=3 September 2009 |url=https://www.bhatt.id.au/blog/behind-the-scenes-of-radio-national-future-tense/ |access-date=27 November 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Future Tense with Antony Funnell |website=ABC listen|date=21 November 2024 |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/futuretense |access-date=27 November 2024}}</ref> * ''RN Drive'' (2012–2024), hosted by (2012–2014 Waleed Aly;<ref>{{cite web | title=RN farewells Waleed Aly | website=ABC Radio National |date=1 December 2014 | url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/radionational/rn-farewells-waleed/5931182 |access-date=11 October 2023}}</ref> 2015–2021 Patricia Karvelas;<ref>{{cite web | last=Christensen | first=Nic | title=ABC hires The Australian's Patricia Karvelas as RN Drive host replacing Waleed Aly | website=Mumbrella |date=21 December 2014 | url=https://mumbrella.com.au/abc-hires-australians-patricia-karvelas-rn-drive-host-replacing-waleed-aly-268876 |access-date=11 October 2023}}</ref> 2022–2024 Andy Park<ref>{{cite web |last=Welch |first=Kalila |title=Andy Park to host RN Drive in 2022 |website=Mumbrella |date=12 December 2021 |url=https://mumbrella.com.au/andy-park-to-host-rn-drive-in-2022-717683 |access-date=11 October 2023 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Andy Park | website=Australian Film Television and Radio School |date=11 March 2022 | url=https://www.aftrs.edu.au/alumni/alumni-showcase/andy-park/ |access-date=11 October 2023}}</ref><ref name="RadioInfo" />), covering politics, current affairs, arts, and culture<ref>{{cite web |title=RN Drive with Andy Park |website=ABC Listen |date=10 October 2023 |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/radionational-drive |access-date=11 October 2023 }}</ref> * ''The Minefield'' (April 2015–present), hosted by Waleed Aly and Scott Stephens, which discusses ethical dilemmas<ref>{{cite web | title=Waleed Aly rejoins Radio National | website=Radio Today |date=30 March 2015 | url=https://radiotoday.com.au/waleed-aly-rejoins-radio-national/ |access-date=11 October 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=The Minefield with Waleed Aly and Scott Stephens | website=ABC Listen |date=4 October 2023 | url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/theminefield |access-date=11 October 2023}}</ref> * ''The Art Show'', formerly ''The Art Hub'' (December 2017–),<ref>{{cite web |last=Meade |first=Amanda |title=ABC Makes Big Changes to Radio Programs across Australia |website=The Guardian |date=6 December 2017 |url=http://www.theguardian.com/media/2017/dec/06/abc-makes-big-changes-to-radio-programs-across-australia |access-date=14 January 2022 }}</ref> hosted by Ed Ayres until mid-January 2020, when it was taken over by Namila Benson.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://radioinfo.com.au/news/silly-season-here-and-changes-are-coming-thick-and-fast/ |title=Silly Season Is Here and the Changes Are Coming Thick and Fast |date=3 December 2019 |website=RadioInfo.com.au |access-date=14 January 2022 }}</ref> Around July 2021 Daniel Browning became the main presenter.<ref>{{cite web |title=Past Programs |website=ABC Radio National |series=The Art Show |url=https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/the-art-show/past-programs/ |access-date=14 January 2022 }}</ref> * ''Blueprint for Living'' (2018 or earlier – 2024),<ref>{{cite web | title=Blueprint For Living with Jonathan Green | website=ABC listen |date=13 September 2024 | url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/blueprintforliving |access-date=15 September 2024}}</ref><ref name="abc.net.au"/> Jonathan Green (former editor of ''Meanjin''<ref>{{cite web | title=Jonathan Green | website=Melbourne University Publishing | url=https://www.mup.com.au/authors/jonathan-green |access-date=15 September 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Green to leave Meanjin | website=Books+Publishing |date=17 May 2022 | url=https://www.booksandpublishing.com.au/articles/2022/05/17/214283/green-to-leave-meanjin/ |access-date=15 September 2024}}</ref> and founding editor of ABC Online's ''The Drum''<ref>{{cite web | title=Jonathan Green | website=ABC Radio National |date=2 May 2022 | url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/radionational/jonathan-green/3002228 |access-date=15 September 2024}}</ref> * ''Sporty'' (c.2019–2022, Amanda Smith)<ref>{{cite web | title=Sporty - Programs | website=ABC Radio National | url=https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/sporty/ |access-date=16 February 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Past Programs by Date - Sporty | website=ABC Radio National | url=https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/sporty/past-programs/ |access-date=16 February 2021}}</ref> * ''Sunday Extra'' (2019–present, Julian Morrow, including ''Background Briefing'' and ''Ockham's Razor'', and apparently superseding ''Correspondents Report'')<ref name=correx1>{{cite web | title=Episodes - Correspondents Report | website=ABC Radio |date=10 October 2003 | url=https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/correspondentsreport/episodes/ |access-date=16 February 2021}}</ref><ref name=correx2>{{cite web | title=Foreign Correspondent: Latest Segments | website=ABC Radio | url=https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/correspondentsreport/latest-segments/10858602 |access-date=16 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210216073931/https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/correspondentsreport/latest-segments/10858602?page=7|archive-date=16 February 2021}}</ref> *''Stop Everything!'', presented by Benjamin Law and Beverley Wang<ref>{{cite web | title=Stop Everything! with Benjamin Law and Beverley Wang | website=ABC Radio National |date=30 March 2023 | url=https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/stop-everything |access-date=2 April 2023}}</ref> * ''The Screen Show'', with Jason Di Rosso<ref>{{cite web |title=The Screen Show with Jason Di Rosso |url=https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/the-screen-show |website=ABC listen |access-date=24 August 2023 }}</ref> * ''The Economy, Stupid'' (2024–present) * ''The Money'' * ''The Economists'' * ''The Religion and Ethics Report'' * ''The History Listen'' (2017–2024) * ''Rear Vision'' * ''ABC Rewind''
==See also== * Bald Hills Radiator, ABC's AM radio transmission centre in Brisbane * List of radio stations in Australia * Radio New Zealand National * Timeline of Australian radio
==Notes== {{Notelist}}
==References== {{Reflist}}
==External links== * {{Official website|https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/}} * [https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/ Current programs] * {{cite web |url=https://www.nfsa.gov.au/collection/curated/women-radio |title=Women in Radio: Celebrating women radio pioneers |website=National Film & Sound Archive }} {{ABC Local Radio}}{{National radio networks in Australia}}
Category:1923 establishments in Australia Category:Australian radio networks Category:News and talk radio stations in Australia Category:Public radio in Australia Category:Radio stations established in 1923 Category:Australian Broadcasting Corporation radio stations