ARN

What ARN does

ARN is a publicly-traded Australian multi-platform audio entertainment company that operates broadcast radio, digital streaming, podcasting, and advertising services. The company reaches 8+ million listeners across 58 radio stations in 33 markets, 46+ DAB+ digital stations, and its iHeart digital platform which has 6.5+ million monthly listeners and 25+ million monthly podcast downloads. The business serves audiences across all Australian states and territories and supports advertisers with audio-led solutions spanning metro and regional markets, with iconic brands including KIIS and GOLD under the broadcast portfolio.

The core product suite centers on the iHeart digital audio platform, licensed from iHeartMedia, combined with broadcast stations and a growing slate of podcasts and live events (iHeartLIVE). The technology stack includes proprietary systems such as Dynamic Audio (a world-first dynamic ad-insertion capability for FM broadcasting launched in 2020), the RUBY first-party audience platform with 800+ audience segments, ROAM geo-targeting technology, the NeuroLab neuroscience research partnership, and the Backstage research community. Infrastructure includes a next-generation data lakehouse built on Azure Databricks and Microsoft Fabric, integrated with third-party data partners Westpac DataX and Experian, plus identity spine technology and Forter for fraud detection. The 2026 restructure further concentrates the business on content, data, and technology as core growth pillars.

The business model is advertising-driven across three primary sales channels: national broadcast sales (metro), regional broadcast sales, and digital audio sales. Revenue is generated through traditional spot advertising, programmatic audio (via Magnite, The Trade Desk, and OpenPath), branded content production through the Ruby studio, live events, and video podcasts. The company sells to brands and agencies across diverse verticals including automotive, retail, FMCG, healthcare, and gambling, with sales teams operating across multiple Australian offices. ARN is also expanding adjacent offerings such as video podcasts, branded content, and women's sports programming to diversify revenue beyond traditional broadcast advertising.

Name

ARN

Legal name

Australian Radio Network Pty Ltd

Website

https://arn.com.au

Company type

Public

Founded year

1987

Operating status

Operating

Short description

ARN is a publicly-traded Australian multi-platform audio entertainment company operating 58 radio stations across 33 markets and the iHeart digital platform, serving 8+ million listeners and selling advertising solutions to brands and agencies nationwide.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Commercial Radio Broadcasting and Audio Advertising

NAICS

Broadcasting and Content Providers (516), Motion Picture and Sound Recording Industries (512)

akta.pro primary industry

Radio Streaming & Catch-Up Audio Platforms (MPAIADAJ)

akta.pro secondary industries

Music & Audio Streaming Platforms (BPAMAJAC), Audio Production & Podcasting (BPAFAIAE)

Keywords

• Audio advertising
• Commercial radio broadcasting
• Digital audio streaming
• Podcast advertising
• Audio entertainment networks

Headquarters

HQ city

North Sydney

HQ country

Australia

HQ region

Oceania

Offices6 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Operations, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Audio Advertising: ARN generates revenue primarily through audio advertising across its broadcast, streaming, and podcast platforms. The company offers innovative advertising solutions including Audiosphere, Dynamic Audio (personalized real-time messaging), ROAM (geo-targeted mobile), ARN Amplify (standard audio creative with targeting), and 3D Binaural Audio (immersive commercials). Advertising is sold through metro, regional, and digital sales teams to brand partners and agencies.
2. Research and Insights Services: ARN offers research solutions including Connections Planner (audio intelligence for campaign planning), Backstage (engaged research community), and NeuroLab (neuroscience-based advertising evaluation). These services enhance advertiser campaigns and provide additional revenue streams.
3. Branded Content (Ruby): Ruby, ARN's branded content studio, creates original branded podcasts for advertisers. Brands invest in media and Ruby covers all production, talent, and distribution costs, delivering premium content and measurable ROI as added value.
4. Live Events (iHeartLIVE): ARN generates revenue through live entertainment experiences featuring global superstars and Australian icons. iHeartLIVE events offer brand partnership opportunities for engaging music fans in meaningful, memorable ways.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels7 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

ARN operates a national audio entertainment business spanning 58 broadcast radio stations across 33 markets, more than 46 DAB+ digital stations, and the iHeart digital audio platform reaching over 6.5 million monthly podcast listeners. The company monetises its audience reach through advertising solutions (Dynamic Audio, ROAM, ARN Amplify, Audiosphere, 3D Binaural Audio), research tools (Connections Planner, Backstage, NeuroLab), branded content production (Ruby), live entertainment (iHeartLIVE), and first-party data targeting (RUBY audience platform).

Product overview

ARN (Australian Radio Network) is an entertainment company operating a multi-platform audio and entertainment business. Its core digital product is iHeart — a digital audio platform bringing together broadcast radio, podcasts, music streaming, and video podcasts under one roof, reaching more than 6.5 million monthly listeners. ARN's radio network spans multiple sub-brands: the KIIS Network (contemporary hit radio across five metro markets), the GOLD Network (classic hits across seven stations), CADA (Hip Hop and R&B nationally), more than 46 DAB+ digital stations, and a Regional Network covering 58 stations in 33 markets plus 47 Super Radio Network stations. iHeartLIVE delivers live fan experiences at scale. On the advertising side, ARN offers AI-powered addressable solutions including Dynamic Audio, ROAM (geo-targeted mobile), ARN Amplify, and Audiosphere, alongside research tools (Connections Planner, Backstage, NeuroLab). Ruby is ARN's branded content studio, and RUBY is its first-party audience data platform enabling programmatic targeting. Content events including Save Our Pub, Run Club Rave, Kiised at Sea, and The Zone create cultural moments for brand partnerships. iHeart distributes content on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, and YouTube, with dynamic ads following content across platforms.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• KIIS Network: Radio network featuring contemporary hit music with stations KIIS 1065, KIIS 1011, KIIS 973, KIIS 1023, and KIIS Perth, featuring talent including Will & Woody, Smallzy, and Kyle & Jackie O
• GOLD Network
• CADA
• iHeart
• Super Radio Network
• iHeartLIVE
• Ruby Australia
• TikTok Trending
• Woolworths Radio
• Chemist Warehouse Remix
• Elf Radio

Products and services

• iHeart
• KIIS Network
• GOLD Network
• CADA
• ARN Digital Stations (DAB+)
• ARN Regional Network
• iHeartLIVE
• Dynamic Audio
• ROAM
• ARN Amplify
• Audiosphere
• 3D Binaural Audio
• Connections Planner
• Backstage
• NeuroLab
• Ruby Branded Content Studio
• RUBY First-Party Audience Platform
• iHeart Originals
• iHeart Women's Sports Network

Quantifiable outcome

• Reach over 8 million listeners across radio, digital audio, and podcasts
• +5 more outcomes

Named customers12 records

Segments2 records

Ideal customer profiles1 record

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration11 records

AI capability12 records

Feature10 records

Partnerships

30 partnerships are on record, tiered core, major and supporting.

• TikTokcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 29 October 2025ARN and TikTok partnership to bring music, trends, and culture to Australian audiences through radio, streaming, social, and live events. Partnership includes TikTok Trending - world's first TikTok radio station broadcasting 24/7 on iHeart, Australia's #1 DAB+ station for under-30s. Extended into 2026 with TikTok Viral Chart Shows planned across KIIS, CADA, and regional stations.
• Are MediamajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 29 October 2025ARN's iHeart partnered with Are Media, Australia's largest women's lifestyle network, to distribute premium podcasts including marie claire's 'You're Gonna Want to Hear This'. Partnership opens integrated commercial opportunities for brands to engage Australian women across both media networks. Are Media brands include WHO, ELLE, marie claire, Belle, Home Beautiful, The Australian Women's Weekly, Gourmet Traveller.
• ITV Studios AustraliamajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 29 October 2025Landmark partnership between iHeart, ITV Studios Australia, and Nine to produce 'Love Island Australia: Officially Unpacked' podcast. Partnership marks a major step in iHeart's strategy to create premium entertainment experiences blending audio, video, and social engagement.
• Ruby (iHeartMedia)coreOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing Partner · 29 October 2025ARN debuted iHeartMedia's branded content studio Ruby in Australia. Ruby creates meaningful branded podcasts for partners, handling creative conception, production, promotion, and measurement. In the US, Ruby has produced 50+ original titles with major advertisers including Audible, HBO, IBM, Salesforce.
• Westpac DataXmajorTechnology or Integration · 29 October 2025Data partnership with Westpac DataX unlocking transaction insights from 13 million Westpac customers. Collaboration powers 800+ new audience segments for smarter targeting and more measurable outcomes.
• ExperianmajorTechnology or Integration · 29 October 2025Partnership with Experian brings best-in-class consumer segmentation and census data to the iHeart Network, powering 800+ new audience segments.
• AzirasupportingTechnology or Integration · 29 October 2025Existing data partnership with Azira for audience enrichment across iHeart streaming and podcast ecosystem.
• HypsupportingTechnology or Integration · 29 October 2025Existing data partnership with Hyp for audience enrichment across iHeart streaming and podcast ecosystem.
• LiveRampmajorTechnology or Integration · 29 October 2025LiveRamp integrated as data cleanroom alongside Infosum, providing privacy-safe ways for advertisers to collaborate with ARN using their first-party customer data.
• InfosummajorTechnology or Integration · 29 October 2025Data cleanroom partnership providing privacy-safe collaboration between advertisers and ARN. Combined with LiveRamp for expanded data activation capabilities.
• MagnitemajorTechnology or Integration · 29 October 2025Partnership with Magnite connects iHeart's advertising technology directly to Magnite's exchange, creating new paths for advertiser demand in programmatic audio buying.
• OpenPathmajorTechnology or Integration · 29 October 2025OpenPath provides direct access to iHeart inventory via efficient and transparent supply path for buyers using The Trade Desk.
• The Trade DeskmajorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 29 October 2025Programmatic audio buying through The Trade Desk via OpenPath supply path for efficient and transparent access to iHeart inventory.
• CRA (Commercial Radio Australia)majorTechnology or Integration · 29 October 2025CRA audio ID integration enables programmatic audio buying across iHeart to be more efficient and effective.
• Azure Databricks / Microsoft FabriccoreTechnology or Integration · 29 October 2025Next-generation data lakehouse implementation on Azure Databricks and Microsoft Fabric to transform ARN's data infrastructure.
• Making The CallmajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 29 October 2025Partnership with Making The Call to launch Australia's first-ever audio network dedicated entirely to women's sports - iHeart Women's Sports Network.
• Saatchi & SaatchimajorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting Partner · 3 June 2024ARN worked with Saatchi & Saatchi as creative agency for Ampol's 'Last Chance Servo' campaign, using Dynamic Audio technology to deliver contextually tailored commercials to drivers on outback roads.
• iHeartMediacoreOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing PartnerARN is the exclusive authorized licensee of iHeartRadio in Australia. This long-standing partnership provides ARN access to iHeartMedia's platform technology, content library (100M+ songs, 1M+ artists, 100k+ podcasts), and branded content studio Ruby. Content created by ARN is distributed on iHeart platform and other major podcast platforms.
• NinemajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartnership with Nine for Love Island Australia: Officially Unpacked podcast. Available on Nine Now, iHeart, and all major podcast platforms.
• Super Radio NetworkmajorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorSuper Radio Network is Australia's largest privately owned network of commercial radio stations, comprising 47 AM and FM stations covering 93% of NSW and extending into Queensland and Northern Territory.
• Capital Radio NetworksupportingChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorCapital Radio Network stations in Canberra, Goulburn, Snowy Mountains, Gippsland, and Perth extend ARN's regional reach.
• AudiblesupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerAudible is a major brand partner of Ruby's branded podcast content in the US market, demonstrating Ruby's capability to attract global advertisers.
• HBOsupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerHBO is a major brand partner of Ruby's branded podcast content in the US market.
• IBMsupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerIBM is a major brand partner of Ruby's branded podcast content in the US market.
• SalesforcesupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerSalesforce is a major brand partner of Ruby's branded podcast content in the US market.
• The New York TimessupportingChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorInternational podcast content partnership bringing The New York Times podcasts to Australian audiences on iHeart platform.
• BBC StudiossupportingChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorInternational podcast content partnership bringing BBC Studios podcasts to Australian audiences on iHeart platform.
• Sony Music EntertainmentsupportingChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorInternational music content partnership with Sony Music Entertainment providing access to extensive music catalog on iHeart platform.
• GlobalsupportingChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorInternational podcast content partnership with Global bringing premium global podcasts to Australian audiences on iHeart platform.
• Bravecasting Podcast NetworksupportingChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorBravecasting Podcast Network is the production partner for Law the Podcast, Australia's number one crime podcast creator, distributed on iHeartPodcast Network.

Scale indicators18 records

Recent moves10 records

Expansion highlights9 records

Direct peers

• Southern Cross Media Group (SCA): Australia's other major commercial radio broadcaster operating the Hit Network and Triple M networks across metro and regional Australia. Directly competes with ARN's KIIS and GOLD networks for advertisers, audiences, and talent, and offers comparable digital audio and podcast assets.
• Nova Entertainment: Australian commercial radio broadcaster operating the Nova and Smooth FM networks in metro markets. Directly competes with ARN's KIIS network for listeners and advertisers, with similar music-format positioning and digital audio offerings.
• Bauer Media Audio: Operates a portfolio of radio brands and digital audio properties in Australia and internationally. Comparable to ARN as a multi-station commercial broadcaster serving advertisers with broadcast + digital audio assets.
• Global (Global Media & Entertainment): UK-based commercial radio broadcaster operating Capital, Heart, Classic FM, LBC and Smooth, with international podcast distribution. Comparable to ARN as a multi-network radio broadcaster with digital audio and podcast offerings, and is also a content distribution partner of iHeart in Australia.

Broad incumbents

• iHeartMedia: The US-based global radio and digital audio company whose iHeartRadio platform ARN licenses in Australia. Operates 860+ stations in the US and is the developer of many technologies ARN uses (Dynamic Audio, Ruby branded content studio). Functionally the parent licensor and a strategic counterpart.
• Seven West Media: Major Australian diversified media company operating the Seven television network plus digital audio (7plus) and Pacific Magazines. Competes with ARN for advertising budgets across television, digital, and audio, and is a peer in the broader Australian media advertising market.
• Nine Entertainment: Australian media company operating Channel Nine, streaming (9Now), publishing, and previously radio. Direct competitor for advertising dollars and also a content partner of ARN via the Love Island Australia podcast. Comparable in scale and audience reach across video, audio, and digital.
• Sirius XM Holdings: US subscription and ad-supported audio entertainment company combining satellite radio, streaming (Pandora), and podcasts. Comparable to ARN as a multi-format audio platform monetised through advertising and subscriptions, though operating under a different regulatory and geographic context.

Emerging players

• Spotify: Global audio streaming platform that distributes iHeart podcasts and competes for digital audio listening time. Increasingly building podcast original content and ad-tech (Spotify Ad Studio), making it both a distribution partner and a strategic competitor for advertiser attention in Australian audio.

Others

• ARN's digital audio competitors (Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts): Global streaming and podcast platforms that distribute iHeart content while also competing for Australian listener time. Adjacent ecosystem participants that influence ARN's reach and monetisation through their platforms.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat7 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xtwitter.com/arn
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/arn-media

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles18 records

Subsidiaries2 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about ARN