Radio National

ABC Radio National (RN) is a national spoken-word radio network operated by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Based in Sydney, this network does not broadcast advertisements and offers listeners programs covering current affairs with in-depth analysis, science, and the arts, as well as documentaries and expert opinions.

The network began broadcasting on 5 December 1923 with the Sydney station 2SB (later 2BL). The current "Radio National" brand was officially adopted in 1985 following a major reorganization of the ABC. RN broadcasts nationwide across all states and territories via terrestrial transmitters (AM and FM bands) and digital radio (DAB+), as well as through the ABC listen app, which offers podcasts and on-demand listening.

Its main transmitter in Sydney uses the historic call sign 2RN, while local call signs are used across the country—such as 3RN in Melbourne, 4RN in Brisbane, and 7RN in Hobart.

Unlike commercial networks focused on pop music or provocative talk-radio hosts, RN offers a schedule consisting entirely of spoken-word programs hosted by subject-matter experts and investigative journalists. Its flagship program, "Conversations" - hosted by Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski - is one of the country's most popular audio projects, featuring writers, scientists, and other notable figures. In November 2024, Sally Sara succeeded Patricia Karvelas as host of the program "RN Breakfast," which covers major breaking news and provides in-depth analysis of events in politics, business, and sports, as well as interviews with leading global experts. The weekly schedule includes long-running niche programs such as The Science Show (hosted by Robyn Williams), Soul Search, Background Briefing (investigative journalism), and The Books Show.

According to official GfK data for Melbourne, the fifth survey of 2026 showed that the RN radio station held a 1.3% share of the total audience, with a reach of 165,000 listeners. The station’s core audience comprises researchers, policymakers, academics, and listeners who value independent reporting.

RN reporters and producers regularly receive prestigious national awards—including the Walkley Award for excellence in journalism—testifying to the network's important role in the public life of Australians.