ABC Radio National Hobart

ABC Radio National Hobart is the regional outlet of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s nationwide "Ideas Network," broadcasting to Hobart and southern Tasmania. Known as RN, the station operates locally on the 585 AM frequency, having established its distinct presence as part of the national network that traces its origins back to the 1920s. In Hobart, the service is also accessible through DAB+ digital radio and is carried on the National DAB Multiplexers. The station’s signal is transmitted from facilities at Mount Wellington and White Rock, ensuring coverage across the metropolitan area and the surrounding rural districts of the state.

The programming on ABC Radio National is defined by a deep focus on science, books, religion, social history, and the arts. National flagship programs include "RN Breakfast," currently presented by Sally Sara, and "Late Night Live," which has been a staple of the network for decades. Other key segments include "The Science Show" with Robyn Williams, "The Health Report," and "Awaye!," which highlights Indigenous art and culture. While much of the content is produced in major mainland studios, the Hobart outlet serves as a vital link for Tasmanian listeners to access these high-level discussions on national and international affairs, current events, and ethical dilemmas.

As a public service broadcaster, ABC Radio National Hobart operates without commercial advertising and is part of a broader family of sister stations including ABC Classic and Triple J. The network’s history in Hobart is intertwined with the evolution of the ABC’s dual-station system, which originally identified as Radio 1 and Radio 2. In addition to its terrestrial AM and digital signals, the station’s content is distributed through the ABC Listen app and online streaming platforms. This ensures that its specialized talk format, which includes long-standing series like the "Boyer Lectures," remains a consistent cultural and intellectual resource for the Tasmanian community.