The government has granted a groundbreaking private radio license to a company in Suva, led by a former broadcaster, marking a significant change for the media landscape, particularly in radio. The successful applicant, Communications (Fiji) Ltd, was founded by William Parkinson, a previous announcer for Radio Fiji, as reported by The Fiji Times on September 21, 1984.
Matt Wilson, who owns a public relations firm in Suva, is also a partner in the venture. A government announcement made the day before indicated that the license would come with several conditions to be discussed with Communications (Fiji) Ltd.
This is the first private radio license issued, with the potential for more licenses to be granted in the future as the industry develops. Parkinson, who was just 22 at the time, expressed optimism about launching his FM station within six to seven months, contingent on successful final negotiations with the government.
Initial plans suggest that the FM station will be less costly and easier to manage, though it will need to be located at a higher elevation. The site for the station has yet to be determined, and the company is still exploring options for equipment purchase, with an initial investment projected at around $300,000. The station’s programming will initially focus on serving Suva and its surroundings.
There are aspirations to expand the service to the Western Division with plans to establish a station in that region later. Parkinson indicated that the proposed staff would consist of about 20 individuals and expressed happiness with the government’s decision to issue the license while noting that details are pending the outcome of ongoing negotiations.
According to sources, the station will broadcast music, interviews, and news from 6 am to midnight, seven days a week, initially targeting a younger audience primarily under 30 years old. Programming will include a mix of English, Fijian, and Hindi music genres, encouraging announcers to use everyday language that resonates with listeners.
Advertising rates for the new station will likely range from $15 to $8, with late-night ads priced at $5. Although eight companies expressed interest in commercial radio licenses, ultimately six applied, including Communications (Fiji) Ltd, AWA, The Fiji Times, and the Fiji Sun.