Last week the U.S. House of Representatives voted to discontinue funding for National Public Radio (NPR) and around 900 of its affiliate stations. In many ways similar to community radio here in Australia, NPR’s network cannot carry full blown advertising and relies heavily on public donations and sponsorships.  Although government funding represents, at most, around 10% of the public radio budget, its supporters fear that losing those funds would deal a body blow to many individual stations.

The vote was carried by a narrow margin, 228 to 192. Republicans say that the belt-tightening is necessary as the U.S. struggles with its record deficit and uncertain financial future. Democrats say that it is a political ploy by the Republicans to cripple what they perceive to be a left wing organisation that is biased against them.

Although the bill is unlikely to pass in the senate and President Obama, who is known to oppose it, may use his right of veto if it does, these events in America will no doubt cause a few sleepless nights to those in Australia whose careers depend on a well-funded community sector.

Community Radio funding in Australia comes from three main sources, memberships, sponsorship and government grants channelled through the Community Broadcasting Foundation www.cbf.com.au . The CBF last year received $14 million in government grants.

Could it happen here? Taking into account that we already have a fully taxpayer funded ABC, should it happen here?

What would happen to community radio if it did?