A re-elected Gillard Labor Government will ensure that Sydney’s most popular community radio station, FBi Radio, will be able to stay on air.

The announcement was made today by Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Anthony Albanese, and Labor Member for Sydney Tanya Plibersek.

Federal Labor will deliver $95,000 to FBi 94.5FM to rebuild its transmitter, which broke down earlier this year, leaving the station with only an unreliable back up transmitter.

Over recent weeks, FBi has experienced significant signal interruptions, meaning that its loyal and passionate audience has lost reception intermittently across Sydney.

“Federal Labor believes that community radio is an essential component of the Australian broadcasting landscape,” Anthony Albanese said.

“This funding will mean this great community station can continue to broadcast to its sizeable audience across Sydney.”

“FBi 94.5 is a much-loved community station that has been on air in Sydney since 1995.

“The Gillard Labor Government is committed to supporting local infrastructure projects such as this, which encourage engaged, active communities.”

Labor Member for Sydney, Tanya Plibersek, welcomed the funding announcement today.

“With a commitment to Sydney music arts and culture, FBi is one of the most popular community radio stations in Australia, and enjoys the support of a passionate audience.

“FBi Radio is an important part of Sydney’s community and this funding is essential to ensure FBi can remain on air.”

“The funding to FBi will have a significant flow on effect to local artists.

“FBi plays 50% Australian music, with half of that from Sydney,” she said.

“The station has helped organise and present over 50 fundraising events promoting new live and local Sydney music, and provides crucial support to emerging musicians.”

The funding would build on Federal Labor’s commitment to community radio, demonstrated by a record $17.1 million funding in 2009-2010, which included funding for the sector to commence digital broadcasting.

Funding for this contribution to FBi 94.5FM will be fully offset over the forward estimates, consistent with the Government’s commitment to return the budget to surplus in 2013, three years ahead of schedule.

Tanya Plibersek and Anthony with staff and volunteers at community radio station FBi 94.5 FM.