As members of parliament, listening to our electorates would have to be one of the most important tasks we undertake. In my electorate of Spence, one of the ways I can do this is by tuning into 89.7 FM—or PBA-FM, Spence's own community radio station, operating in Salisbury under its station manager, Indi Wood.

PBA-FM provides our local community in the northern suburbs of Adelaide an accessible, creative outlet for those in radio or for those thinking about getting into radio or other like-minded creative outlets. PBA-FM, much like many community radio stations across Australia, is supported by some incredible volunteers. The station provides valuable training and experience for future hosts, DJs and producers. They are just a small part of the close to 18,000 volunteers that help to ensure community broadcasting retains its special place in the local media landscape across many pockets across the country. PBA-FM produces over 70 diverse programs in 16 different languages, offering a vehicle for constructive discussion within our community and abroad.

A strong community radio presence leads to more engaged communities and more connected communities. Community radio provides an invaluable service in Spence and across Australia. I encourage all members to get involved in some of their local stations and discover some of the hidden gems that they produce—for the community and by the local community.