Eastern Community Broadcasters Incorporated

Eastern Community Broadcasters Incorporated (ECBI) is an Australian nonprofit community radio organization serving the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria. Operating under the Australian Business Number (ABN) 85174748127RR0001, ECBI provides a diverse range of programming to the local community, reflecting various cultures and interests.

Overview

ECBI operates a community radio station, broadcasting primarily on FM frequency 98.1 MHz under the callsign 3ECB. The station focuses on delivering locally produced content, with approximately 150 hours of locally generated programming weekly, alongside a mix of national and international content. The programming includes spoken-word segments and music, designed to cater to the diverse demographic of Melbourne’s eastern suburbs[1][5].

Mission and Objectives

The organization aims to serve its community inclusively by promoting cultural diversity and providing a platform for voices from different backgrounds. ECBI supports community engagement through a variety of programs that reflect the interests and needs of its listeners. Its music policy emphasizes inclusiveness of all cultures within the broadcast area, ensuring representation through the station’s content[2].

Operations and Community Involvement

ECBI relies heavily on volunteers, with over 80 active volunteers contributing to the station's operations, production, and outreach activities. At one point in 2019, membership included 379 financial members, indicating strong local community support. The station places great emphasis on locally produced content, with about 150 hours per week tailored specifically for the community it serves[5]. This highlights the organization’s commitment to community engagement and fostering local talent.

Regulatory Compliance and Licensing

Eastern Community Broadcasters Incorporated is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) as a charity focused on community radio services. The station has maintained compliance with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) regulations. Its broadcasting license covers community purposes and has been successfully renewed based on adherence to content and service standards[1][5].

Summary

Eastern Community Broadcasters Incorporated plays a vital role in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs by providing a community-driven radio service. Its extensive volunteer base, diverse programming, and commitment to reflecting multicultural voices underscore its importance as a nonprofit media organization dedicated to community broadcasting in Australia.

This article is based on publicly available information as of April 2025.

[1] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/61fc8357-39af-e811-a960-000d3ad24282 [2] https://www.radioeasternfm.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/policy-music-2025-e032b001fcbf.pdf [3] https://acncpubfilesprodstorage.blob.core.windows.net/public/61fc8357-39af-e811-a960-000d3ad24282-15a90dc5-844d-491e-99d7-f734c44d2203-Financial%20Report-1b868993-20bb-ee11-9078-002248110683-FM98_1-Stat_accounts_y-e_30_June_-_2023_Final_Audited__signed__AC.pdf [4] https://abr.business.gov.au/ABN/View/85174748127 [5] https://www.acma.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-07/BI-547-Investigation-Report.docx