Review of commercial radio’s Codes of Practice

Commercial Radio Australia is conducting a review of the Commercial Radio Codes of Practice and is seeking public comments on the draft revised Codes.

The Codes regulate commercial radio content in accordance with community standards, help listeners make informed choices about their radio listening and provide procedures for the handling of listener complaints.

Commercial Radio Australia CEO Joan Warner says: “Commercial radio broadcasters take their responsibilities under the Codes very seriously and the public review process plays an important part in ensuring programming reflects community standards and expectations.”

“The industry is satisfied that the Codes are working effectively, given listener feedback to stations and research by the Australian Broadcasting Authority both show Australians are highly satisfied with the choice of commercial radio services available to them and are less concerned about the content of programs than six years ago. In addition, breach findings made by the ABA and the number of complaints about the content of programs have dropped progressively since the Codes were last registered.”

The Codes were last reviewed in October 1999. In December 2001, Code of Practice 8, which relates to broadcasts of emergency information, was registered by the ABA.

The closing date for public comment to the review of the Codes is Friday, 19 March 2004. Comments can be submitted by:

· Post to “Codes Review, Commercial Radio Australia, Level 5, 88 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010

· Fax to (02) 9281 6599 marked “Attention: Codes Review”; or

· Email to [email protected].

Further information and a copy of the Codes and proposed amendments can be found on the Commercial Radio Australia website (click below) or by writing to Commercial Radio Australia.