NSW: Recomendations of ABA for new broadcasting standards

AAP General News (Australia)
08-02-2000
NSW: Recomendations of ABA for new broadcasting standards

SYDNEY, Aug 2 AAP - The Australian Broadcasting Authority today made recommendations
designed to stamp out so-called "cash for comment" deals on commercial radio.

The recommendations include implementing new standards for broadcasters and increasing
the punitive powers of the ABA.



New Standards:

- The generic disclosure of commercial agreements by presenters of current affairs programs.

- A clear distinction of advertisements from other programs.

- The establishment of a compliance program which would be a condition of a broadcaster's
licence.



New Powers

- Power to direct advertising-free periods.

- Power to designate a period of time where a presenter is prohibited from broadcasting.

- Power to require on-air corrections.

- Power to require the broadcasting of ABA findings.

- Power to impose a civil penalty, such as a fine.

- Power to approach the federal court for an injunction in relation to breaches of the law.

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