For migrant communities across Australia, radio has always been a vital link to their homelands, and SBS, broadcasting in over 60 languages, has played a crucial role in fostering these connections.

“In the early 2000s, we discovered the SBS Filipino program,” he said. “I’m happy to hear news and information in my own language.”

Patrick Acierda has been listening to SBS Filipino since the early 2000s. Source: Supplied / Patrick Acierda

For many immigrants, language radio programs provide invaluable information about settling in Australia.

Fellow Thai immigrant, Sopha Cole, agrees, adding, “It offers valuable insights about living in Australia, including updates from the Australian government. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, SBS provided a lot of helpful information.”

“When we first came to Australia, we listened to Turkish news. Now, in Qatar, I listen to Australian news. When we’re abroad, we crave news from where we grew up. Radio remains the easiest way to get it.”

“Through podcasts, radio continues to thrive … it seems that the habit of listening to the radio hasn’t declined, in fact, it might be growing even more.”