The Christian O’Connell Show will broadcast nationally across Australia for the first time in 2026.
The move marks a significant step in ARN’s strategy to expand its content reach across metro and regional markets, bringing the Melbourne-based GOLD FM breakfast show to listeners in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and beyond.
Christian, who moved from the UK to Australia in 2018, said going national was a long-held ambition.
“When I moved here seven years ago, I dreamed of building a national show – one that could connect with people all over Australia,” he said.
He previously fronted a number one national breakfast show in the UK with an audience of 2.5 million and has since built a strong following in Melbourne with a show known for its mix of storytelling, humour and community.
The national rollout will see the show air live in major cities during breakfast and in regional areas in the evenings, as ARN expands the GOLD Network’s footprint.
“This isn’t a show about gossip or stunts,” Christian added. “I want to offer something more: a real alternative in the mornings. Something built on heart, humour and human connection.”
ARN’s Chief Audience & Content Officer Lauren Joyce said: “Christian is a rare talent with an extraordinary ability to connect with audiences. He’s already built one of the most successful shows in Melbourne, and we believe that’s just the beginning.”
The show is also expected to offer new national advertising opportunities, with ARN highlighting Christian’s previous commercial campaigns that have resonated with both clients and listeners.
“I have helped brands innovate with ideas that don’t just shout – they’ve mattered,” Christian said. “I’m excited to bring that same creative thinking to national clients who want to stand out and make a difference.”
Christian’s move to a national breakfast platform is a first for commercial radio in Australia and comes after seven years building his audience in Melbourne.
“People said I’d never make it here. That an outsider wouldn’t connect. But I did. I’ve stayed true to who I am and what I do: real radio, for grown-ups, about real life – and bloody funny.”