As radio continues its transformation from traditional broadcasting to a connected, digital-first medium, one thing remains unchanged: the power of audio to inform, connect and include.
That was one of the key messages from respected broadcaster, educator, author and media strategist Steve Ahern OAM, who recently joined Vision Australia Radio's National Audio Business Development Consultant and Community Engagement Coordinator, Jason Gipps, for a wide-ranging discussion ahead of Radiodays Asia 2026 in Jakarta.
The conversation explored the future of radio, artificial intelligence, digital broadcasting, accessibility and audience trust, while also highlighting Vision Australia Radio's ongoing contribution to the media industry and the blind and low vision community.
A century of change, but radio's purpose remains
Having spent decades at the forefront of broadcasting, Steve has witnessed enormous change across the media landscape. From analogue transmitters and tape recorders through to streaming, podcasting and AI-powered tools, he believes the digitisation of radio has been the most significant development of all.
"The fact that once radio output was digital, it could be streamed on the internet and metadata could be added, vision could be added, text could be added," he says. "That digitisation of radio has allowed all the things that we now see."
Yet despite rapid advances in technology, Steve believes radio's greatest strength remains its ability to create a personal connection between broadcasters and audiences.
"I think the heart of radio is the people and the connection," he says. "When you think about audio and that one-to-one personal relationship, it can go straight from your ears to the brain without the distraction of images."
For Vision Australia Radio, that observation resonates strongly. Every day, the network provides access to news, magazines, information and entertainment for Australians who are blind, have low vision or live with a print disability, demonstrating the unique value of audio as both a source of information and a tool for inclusion.
Recognition for accessibility leadership
One of the most significant moments in the discussion came when Steve reflected on Vision Australia Radio's role in advancing accessibility across the broader media industry.
While acknowledging that radio and media organisations still have much work to do in making services more accessible, he recognised the impact Vision Australia Radio has had in driving awareness and change.
"A lot of the work that you've done in your network has been pulled out into the wider media because you guys have really pushed it and made people aware that it's needed," he says.
The comments are a timely reminder that the work undertaken by Vision Australia Radio extends beyond broadcasting. Through advocacy, education, partnerships and lived experience, the network continues to demonstrate how accessibility can be embedded into media systems, workplaces and audience experiences.
During the interview, Jason Gipps also highlighted the many accessibility solutions now available to support people who are blind or have low vision working within the broadcasting industry, helping break down barriers to participation and employment.
A changing broadcast landscape
The discussion also examined Vision Australia Radio's recent transition away from AM broadcasting in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth in favour of a stronger focus on DAB+, streaming, apps, smart speakers and other digital listening platforms.
As a national not-for-profit broadcaster operating in a rapidly changing media environment, the decision was made to support the long-term sustainability of the service while continuing to meet the changing listening habits of audiences.
Steve described the move as part of a broader industry-wide shift.
"I think it's part of a broader transition," he says. "Networks, especially networks that have tight cost controls, would look for cheaper ways to do the same thing. FM and DAB and then adding streaming and other things is absolutely the right business decision to make."
Importantly, Steve also acknowledged the vital role Vision Australia Radio continues to play within the community radio sector.
"Congratulations to all the amazing work that your network does because it serves a really important purpose, which is at the heart of community in community radio."
The conversation highlighted how digital delivery not only improves sustainability but also creates new opportunities for accessibility. Streaming, mobile applications, smart speakers, connected devices and podcasting provide audiences with more ways than ever to access content at a time and place that suits them.
Artificial intelligence, trust and the human voice
Like many conversations taking place throughout the media industry, artificial intelligence featured prominently during the interview.
While Steve believes AI will become increasingly useful behind the scenes, helping streamline production workflows and automate repetitive tasks, he also suggested audiences will continue to value authenticity and human connection.
"The content matters when you're having a direct connection with a person who's on the radio," he says. "It's a human connection. And that's what live radio will have that AI won't have, no matter how sophisticated it gets."
This perspective aligns closely with Vision Australia Radio's commitment to providing trusted, locally relevant and human-centred content for its audience.
Looking ahead to Radiodays Asia
The interview was recorded as part of Jason's lead-up coverage to Radiodays Asia 2026, where he will attend as an official Radiodays Asia Ambassador representing Vision Australia Radio.
Held in Jakarta from September 1 to 3, the conference brings together broadcasters, podcasters, journalists, media executives and audio professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
As both an ambassador and delegate, Jason hopes to encourage greater discussion around inclusive media, accessible audio and equal access to news and information for people who are blind, have low vision or live with a print disability.
"We have an important story to tell," Jason says. "While technology continues to evolve, access to information remains a fundamental issue of equality. Audio plays a critical role in ensuring people can participate fully in their communities, workplaces and everyday lives."
As the industry looks towards the future, Steve Ahern's message was clear. Technology will continue to change, platforms will come and go, and new innovations will emerge. But radio's enduring value lies in something far more human.
Connection.
And for Vision Australia Radio's growing audience across Australia, that connection remains as important today as it has ever been.
Special offer
Use the code RDAJGAMB10 at the checkout when purchasing your ticket to Radio Days Asia 2026, and receive 10% off a 2-day or 3-day conference ticket.
Learn more about the conference and get your tickets now, at Radiodays Asia.
