- Posted on 16 Apr 2026
UTS remains committed to continuing its current level of financial, infrastructure and wider support for 2SER following the notification by Macquarie University of its intention to withdraw its support by the end of 2026.
UTS is actively supporting 2SER in efforts to secure potential new partners to take over Macquarie’s investment.
“We’re working closely with the 2SER leadership to help secure another partner to replace Macquarie and ensure the necessary governance and financial partnership support continues,” said Deputy Vice-Chancellor External Engagement and Partnerships Dr Alana Piper.
“Whilst efforts to find a partner have not yet been successful, we are hopeful that other universities that share a commitment to student learning and community engagement may step in to support 2SER. We will continue to support the management team to explore all possible options to find alternative long-term partners for this beloved radio station, its staff and passionate community,” Dr Piper said.
The university remains committed to supporting 2SER, however there is a need for clarity about what the station’s long-term future could look like, said Faculty of Design and Society Dean Professor James Bennett.
“We know that without Macquarie’s funding or another university stepping into the space, 2SER needs to look at a different model. We need to know what that would look like and whether a proposed new model would be viable and compliant with license and legislation requirements. We look forward to supporting the station in developing those models whilst we continue to advocate for university sector support.”
Professor Bennett said the station’s license for educational broadcasting meant that the most obvious replacement is another university or educational institution. “The size of funding required to maintain the current model has made a university the most likely source of funding within the current license arrangements. It is also necessary to find a multi-year partner because of the licence renewal situation at the station.”
While Macquarie has committed to its 2026 financial obligations, if another partner is not found, the potential cost of winding up the station meant that those financial commitments will not see the station able to run until the end of 2026.
“The final date is still being calculated based on consultation with staff and a range of proposals that seek to enable the station to have as long a runway as possible to continue its operations and/or transition to another model,” Professor Bennett said.