2VTR, communtiy radio station in Windsor, NSW has been issued remedial directions from the Australian Communications and Media Authority after it was found to be in breach of a licence condition requiring it to encourage community participation in the operations of the station.
This licence condition is a key point of difference between community broadcasting services and other categories of broadcasting service.
It is important that community broadcasters encourage community participation in their operations and have sound corporate governance practices, that they value and promote membership and volunteering, and have an effective and transparent committee structure.
2VTR was given an extended period in which to fix its problems voluntarily. However, as the problems persisted, the ACMA issued remedial directions requiring 2VTR, among other things, to:
- develop a community consultation strategy and structured engagement program with a view to increasing membership and participation;
- clarify the rules around membership and the way that membership applications are dealt with; and
- report back to the ACMA on progress.
If 2VTR fails to comply with the remedial directions outlined within the specified timeframe, the ACMA may take further action, including, potentially, suspending or cancelling the licence.
Try phoning a certain younger station on the Gold Coast. They will swear black and blue that it is not possible to become a member. It is never mentioned on air. Upon talking to this station's management at events, they still refuse to admit they are a community station owned by members because they refuse to allow people to sign up.
Hi Eugene,
This seems to be a growing trend actually.
I know of a station located in,Tamworth NSW,in recent times had booted up to 40 volunteers (Announcers and admin) and seemingly is being controlled by their so called 'operations manager' to mimic a commercial station.
The board have lost all control and credibility and the station no longer seems interested in members. Last count probably has lost most members due to selfishness and rudeness and really no appeal.
There also seems to be a question on who is being payed where they shouldn't be.
I personally think ACMA need to be undertaking audits in areas where complaints have been made. All they seem to do is pipe complaints back to the station who have an answer for everything.
Community stations should be a station for all in the community not for a select few.
Damn boring format with wall to wall music (The same 200 songs) and constant advertising (sponsors).
Turned me off ages ago and oh not to mention no stereo either just raspy overdriven mono!
Can anyone put me in touch with John Bryant please ?