Australia Registers New TV Code to Reflect Digital Era

SYDNEY: The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has registered a new commercial television industry code of practice, part of which now allows programs rated M to air an hour earlier, from 7:30 p.m.

The code allows commercial broadcasters greater flexibility in what they air and when, as well as when they can advertise—it does not apply to public broadcasters or to pay TV.

Under the new rules, which take effect December 1, movies or TV programs rated MA15+ (because of violence or sexual content) will be allowed to broadcast on all commercial free-to-air channels from 8:30 p.m., moved from the previous 9 p.m. restriction. The AV classification for extreme adult violence will be dropped. PG programs will air in what was previously dedicated G zones, from 6 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. on weekends. The child-friendly G zones before and after school will be done away with. Programs rated M will be allowed to air every day between 7:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. (moved from the current 8:30 p.m. to 5 a.m.).

Additionally, no alcohol-related advertisements will be allowed to air before 8:30 p.m., except during sports programs on a weekend or public holiday.

Harold Mitchell, the chairman of Free TV Australia, said: “This code is a real win for viewers. It will mean a greater variety of programming, while preserving key community safeguards.

“A number of changes were made to the proposed code between consultation and registration. Free TV appreciates the constructive and practical approach taken by the ACMA to this process.

“It has resulted in a code which reflects commercial television’s place in Australia’s modern, diversified media economy, where viewers can access content at any time on any number of devices and platforms.”

Free TV CEO Julie Flynn said: “Viewers can be assured that the updated code is easy to understand, gives them more choice and delivers on the commitment that free-to-air commercial television remains the safest place to access great content for free.”