Commercial radio metropolitan advertising revenue declined by 2.6 per cent to $181.612 million in the March quarter compared to $186.518 million in the same period a year ago, according to data compiled by Deloitte and released today by industry body Commercial Radio Australia.

Ad revenues fell slightly across all five major capital city markets in the quarter, in line with softening economic conditions.

Melbourne was the largest market, attracting $58.856 million in ad revenue in the March quarter (down 1.37 per cent), followed by Sydney with $56.336 million (down 1.70 per cent).

Brisbane commercial radio stations reported a 4.66 per cent decline in revenue to $27.531 million, while Perth was 4.69 per cent lower at $23.183 million and Adelaide was down 3.82 per cent to $15.705 million. 

Commercial Radio Australia CEO Joan Warner said: “Weaker business conditions and election uncertainty are impacting on all media sectors. Many advertisers have plans on hold until after the election.” 

The Deloitte figures report actual revenue received by metropolitan commercial radio stations and include all metropolitan agency and direct revenue. 

Metropolitan radio ad revenue rose 3.40 per cent to $809.421 million in calendar year 2018.