Digital radio has clearer reception and better sound quality than AM and FM. It can also provide on-screen information such as song and artist information, weather forecasts and news headlines, and the ability to pause and rewind.
Tuning is also easier, you can simply scroll to the station name. More radio services are available on digital radio compared to AM and FM. Australia is using an upgraded version of the Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) digital radio standard, called DAB+, to broadcast digital radio. See the Digital Radio Plus website for information.
Digital radio is not replacing current AM/FM radio services, but provides another choice on how you listen.
Digital radio versus internet radio
Digital radio is not internet radio. Internet radio uses a stream of data received through an internet connection via a computer, mobile device or an internet-enabled radio. This can attract a streaming cost depending on your internet plan.
Digital radio is broadcast from a transmission site and does not need an internet connection. Digital radio is free. You simply need to check that digital radio services are available in your area and then buy a digital radio (also called a DAB+ receiver).
Capital cities and regional areas
Digital radio is available in all capital cities. Check the Digital Radio Plus website to see if you can get digital radio coverage in your area. You can also check the ABC TV and radio reception website.
If you experience coverage issues, email Commercial Radio Australia with your street name, suburb, state and postcode. This feedback will help with coverage improvements. For areas outside of the capital cities, check the Digital Radio Plus website for the regional centres where digital radio is being planned. You can also contact your local radio station to see if they have plans to provide digital radio services.