ComplaintsCode 5 of the Codes contains a complaints handling process. A listener who reasonably believes that a commercial radio program has breached the Codes is able to complain to the relevant station.
The complaint cannot be anonymous, must be in writing and must provide enough information to enable the station to investigate the complaint and provide a response.
The reference to ‘in writing’ means a letter or fax. Also acceptable is the use of web complaints form downloaded from the station’s website. Information on station websites can be obtained from the “Find a Station” icon on the top right hand corner of this page or you can contact us on (02) 9281 6577. Alternatively, you can download and use the generic listener complaints form below - see link below.
A station which receives a proper written complaint has a mandatory obligation to respond to that complainant within a set period of time. If the complainant is not satisfied with the station’s response, he or she can refer the complaint to ACMA. Please do not send any complaints to Commercial Radio Australia as we have no role to play in the complaints process.
Broadcasting Services (Commercial Radio Advertising) Standard 2000 - PDF
Requires radio advertisements to be clearly distinguishable from all other programs
Broadcasting Services (Commercial Radio Compliance Program) Standard 2000 - PDF
Requires each licensee to develop and implement a compliance training program dealing with the BSA, Standards and the Codes
Broadcasting Services (Commercial Radio Current Affairs Disclosure) Standard 2000 - PDF
Requires certain disclosures about the sponsorship of current affairs programs and announcers by third parties
Commercial Radio Codes of Practice - September 2004 - PDF
Developed by the industry and registered by ACMA in accordance with section 123 of the Broadcasting Services Act
Generic Listener Complaint Form - PDF
Can be used by listeners to make a complaint to a station that a program broadcast by the station breached the Codes
