The CBAA is reviewing the community radio Codes of Practice during 2008 for the first time in five years and we’d appreciate your input.

The Codes are part of a system of self-regulation that sets out the agreed standards of conduct for community broadcasters in both programme content and station operations. It is enforceable by the broadcasting regulator, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

As the Codes underscore the character and diversity of community broadcasting, this is your opportunity to help shape the future of the sector. Some of the key achievements during the last review include the commitment to broadcast 25 per cent of Australian music, the introduction of guidelines for reporting on Indigenous people and issues, and it also initiated some constructive discussion regarding sponsorship.

Over the past few years a number of issues have continued to resurface that suggest the Codes could be better designed to meet our needs. Key among these issues are conflict resolution, dealing with complaints, and community engagement.

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The Broadcasting Services Act 1992 includes legislative requirements for all broadcasting services, including temporary and fully licenced community broadcasters. One of these requirements is the Codes of Practice, a document of self-regulation for each broadcasting sector in Australia.

Coordinating the review of the Codes is the responsibility of the organisation that represents the majority of licensees. The CBAA is facilitating the review on behalf of all stations as the sector organisation representing the majority of community radio stations.

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During 2007, the CBAA consulted with ACMA and established the following timeframe for the community radio Codes of Practice review:

The Codes of Practice can be downloaded here.

Background to the Codes of Practice is located on the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) website, available here