Progressive Music Broadcasting Association Inc.

The Progressive Music Broadcasting Association Inc. (PMBA) is a not-for-profit incorporated association established in 1978 with the purpose of holding an FM radio licence to broadcast progressive and alternative music and arts. It operates Three D Radio, a unique community radio station based in Adelaide, South Australia, that has been on air since 1979. The organisation is entirely volunteer-run, with over 130 volunteers managing all aspects of the station’s 24/7 broadcasting service, making it the only major metropolitan broadcaster in South Australia without paid staff.

Mission and Vision

The PMBA’s mission is to provide a platform for contemporary, progressive, and alternative music that complements and supplements existing commercial and national radio stations. It aims to promote diversity in music and spoken word content, supporting local musicians, women, young people, and various ethnic communities. The vision is to foster a vibrant, independent community radio station that encourages creative freedom and inclusivity while maintaining high standards of Australian content.

Main Objectives

• Broadcast programs featuring alternative and progressive music and arts.
• Provide opportunities for local musicians and performers to showcase their work live or recorded.
• Offer training and skill development in broadcasting techniques to community members.
• Ensure diversity and representation by exceeding Australian content quotas, including a focus on female and local artists.
• Maintain a respectful and inclusive environment by discouraging sexist, racist, or politically biased content.
• Engage listeners by inviting feedback and presenting a wide range of viewpoints in spoken word programming.

Benefiting Groups

• Local musicians and artists seeking exposure and support.
• Listeners interested in diverse, alternative, and progressive music genres.
• Community members wanting to develop broadcasting skills or participate in media production.
• Women, youth, and ethnic communities who benefit from inclusive programming and representation.

Services and Activities

• Broadcasting over 87 diverse weekly programs on 93.7FM and digital platforms.
• Providing a quota system that ensures at least 40% Australian, 20% local, and 40% female music content.
• Offering live and recorded broadcast opportunities for original music and spoken word programs.
• Training volunteers in all aspects of radio production and station operations.
• Hosting community engagement through on-air listener feedback and public meetings.
• Encouraging community support through subscriptions and donations to sustain and grow the station’s independence and reach.