New survey reveals a loyal, faith-filled community shaping the future of our radio.

Key Insights:

  • Most listeners tune in from the car, making radio part of the daily journey.
  • Salt 106.5 is valued as a positive, wholesome and faith-filled alternative.
  • Listeners want more Christian music, stronger local connection and better reception.

Salt 106.5 listeners have spoken and the message is clear: this is more than just a radio station. It’s a daily companion, a source of encouragement, and for many, a meaningful connection to faith.

A recent survey of listeners offers a snapshot of how the Salt community is tuning in, what they value most, and where they’d love to see the station grow

The Car is Where the Station Comes to Life

For most listeners, Salt 106.5 is part of the everyday journey.

More than 60 per cent of respondents said they tune in while driving, making the car the heart of the listening experience. Home listening follows behind, but traditional radio still leads the way, with the vast majority accessing Salt via FM or DAB.

Encouragingly, listening habits remain strong. Many listeners spend one to two hours a day with the station, and a significant number say they’re tuning in even more than they were six months ago.

A Positive, Uplifting Alternative

So, what keeps people coming back?

At the top of the list: music and short, faith-filled messages that speak into everyday life.

Listeners consistently described Salt 106.5 as “positive”, “clean” and “uplifting” – a welcome alternative to the noise of mainstream media. For many, it’s a space free from the “inappropriate” or heavy content often found elsewhere.

There was also strong appreciation for the station’s personalities, with Breakfast host Nato singled out as “real, funny, believable and encouraging”.

For many in the community, Salt isn’t just background noise – it’s a spiritual lifeline. Especially for those not currently connected to a local church, the station offers a steady and accessible connection to faith.

A Community That Gives Back

One of the strongest themes to emerge from the survey is generosity.

More than 60 per cent of respondents said they’ve donated during a recent fundraising appeal, describing Salt 106.5 as “vital work” and a mission they’re proud to support.

At the same time, listeners offered honest feedback. Some reflected on our fundraising appeals suggesting ongoing giving options like direct debit to support the station.

Looking Ahead: Music, Local Connection and Growth

While the overall picture is overwhelmingly positive, listeners were also clear about what could make the station even better.

A strong desire emerged for more Christian music – particularly from Australian artists.

There’s also a growing appetite for deeper local connection. Listeners expressed interest in more community events, school engagement, and local news or leadership segments that reflect life on the Sunshine Coast.

On a practical level, some in the Hinterland noted reception challenges, highlighting the need for a stronger signal to reach more remote areas.

And when it comes to programming, while teaching content is valued, some listeners would prefer a greater balance of music during certain parts of the day.

A Shared Mission, So Where to From Here?

If there’s one thing this survey makes clear, it’s Salt 106.5 is shaped by its community. It’s built by the people who listen, support, and believe in its mission. As the station looks to the future, that same community will continue to play a vital role in helping it grow, reach further, and keep sharing hope across the Sunshine Coast.

We’re already at work on your feedback. You’ll hear more fresh, contemporary Christian artists and songs added every hour, keeping Salt 106.5 sounding hope-filled and uplifting.

We’re also committed to building a stronger local community and we’re seeking partnerships across the Sunshine Coast to better support those facing homelessness and cost of living challenges.

If FM reception is a challenge where you are, remember you can listen anytime on your phone or through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via the Community Radio Plus App – just download it from your app store, search for “Salt 106.5,” and save it to your favourites.

Most of all, thank you for helping shape the future of your station. We couldn’t do this without you.


This article was prepared with AI assistance and then carefully reviewed, fact-checked, and edited by our Digital Team.


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