Australian Radio Network (ARN) has announced the first phase of its transformative 2018 strategy with a new drive show on the national KIIS FM network and a new breakfast show for Melbourne’s KIIS 101.1.

Will & Woody – aka Will McMahon and Woody Whitelaw – from Southern Cross Austereo’s Hit92.9 will join KIIS in 2018 to drive audiences home across the country, replacing Hughesy & Kate, who have moved to Southern Cross Austereo’s Hit Network.

Will & Woody

Furthermore, Kiwi duo Jase & PJ – aka Jason Hawkins and Polly Harding – will bring their ‘Always Awkward’ to Melbourne’s KIIS 101.1 breakfast slot next year, replacing Matt & Meshel – aka Matt Tilley and Meshel Laurie – who have decided not to renew their contracts with the network.

Jase & PJ

ARN national content director Duncan Campbell said: “Today’s first phase of announcements is part of a new strategic direction that has been in the planning for 12 months, and will see a re-energised and even more competitive ARN in 2018 and beyond.

“The signing of Will & Woody and Jase & PJ is an exciting coup for ARN given the talent was also courted by other networks.

“These changes not only enhance our national offering, but also reinvents our approach for KIIS 101.1, marking a significant, bold step forward for Melbourne and the network overall.

Campbell said ARN will share more details on the next phase of its transformation strategy in coming weeks.

ARN chief executive Rob Atkinson said: “These are really exciting times at ARN, as demonstrated by this first phase of announcements.

“We’re not only reinforcing our number one network position, but also confirming our commitment to further energise the ARN network by delivering the best-in-market talent, content, and commercial solution.”