Community Radio Broadcasting Codes of Practice

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Community Radio Broadcasting Codes of Practice coverThe Community Radio Broadcasting Codes Of Practice ("the Codes") set out the operational standards and guiding principles and policies for programming on community broadcasting stations.

The Codes are available below or the full booklet is available here.

Need copies of the Codes for your station or broadcasters? 

Download this print-friendly PDF:

PDF icon Community Radio Broadcasting Codes of Practice - Print Friendly PDF_w_appendices.pdf

PDF icon Community Radio Broadcasting Codes of Practice - Print Friendly PDF.pdf

 

The Codes are complementary (and do not replace) licence conditions set out in the Broadcasting Services Act. Broadcasters are legally obliged to follow both the licence conditions and the Codes.

To make sure that community radio stations operate according to the guiding principles and within a framework of sound corporate governance.

To make sure that community radio stations have written policies and procedures in place that promote diversity and encourage community participation.

To encourage programming that reflects our community interest and guiding principles.

To acknowledge the unique status of Indigenous peoples as the first Australians and to offer a way to demonstrate respect for their cultures and customs.

To reflect the commitment of community radio stations to develop Australian music and provide opportunities for performers to have their work regularly broadcast.

To complement the licence condition in the Act relating to sponsorship announcements.

To outline our legal requirements relating to complaint handling.

To ensure that the Codes continue to reflect changing community standards and remain relevant in the contemporary media environment.

The following checklist will help determine if your station has developed the appropriate policies and procedures to make sure it is complying with the requirements of the Codes.

Community radio stations are required to broadcast "one on-air announcement each week that contains information about the Codes and where listeners can get a copy".

This is an example of a policy that could be used to meet the requirements of Code 2.3: the principles of volunteering.

This is an example of a policy that could be used to meet the requirement of Code 2.3(d): the rights and responsibilities of volunteers within the organisation.

Accurate and sensitive portrayal of suicide and mental health issues.

This is an example of a policy that could be used to meet the requirements of Code 5: Australian music.

This is an example of a policy that could be used to meet the requirements of Code 6: Sponsorship.

This is an example of a policy that could be used to meet the requirements of Code 7: Complaints.