Communications Minister Helen Coonan has called on the commercial radio industry to review its Commercial Radio Codes of Practice 2004 following ACMA’s report yesterday which found Harbour Radio Pty Ltd, licensee of 2GB Radio Sydney breached the Code by broadcasting material that was likely to encourage violence or brutality.

“Under the co-regulatory regime, the Code was developed by industry in consultation with ACMA. The regulator applies the guidelines set out under the Code,” says Coonan.

“If some parts of the industry have concerns about the Code, then they should by all means take steps to have it reviewed.

“I am particularly mindful of the talkback radio format, which has been the subject of complaints under the Code recently. In my view, effective Codes of Practice would apply standards no higher than those which are contained in comparable legislation.

“I strongly encourage industry and ACMA to get this review underway now, so all interested parties can have a voice and ensure good quality broadcasting and programming can continue for listeners throughout Australia.”

Senator Coonan says she is aware that a review of the Code is due to commence in September 2007 and recommended the commercial radio industry begin this review sooner rather than later:

“A review will give the public and the commercial radio industry an opportunity to comment on the Code, and in particular on those parts of it which have been the subject of most recent concern.

“It is important that a co-regulatory scheme, such as the one under which the commercial radio industry operates, does not constrain broadcasters from delivering good quality programming to their listeners whilst reflecting community standards.”