About content & advertising regulation

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) regulates radio and television content through:

• broadcast licence conditions set out in the Broadcasting Services Act 1992
• mandatory program standards that outline the requirements for Australian content and children’s programs on commercial television
• industry codes of practice that cover most matters relating to the content and presentation of radio and television programs—including classification and the amount of advertising allowed
• the Television Program Standard for Australian Content in Advertising, which aims to ensure that the majority of advertisements on television are Australian-made
• the Broadcasting Services (Commercial Radio Advertising) Standard 2000, which encourages commercial radio broadcasters to ensure paid advertising is clearly distinguishable from all other programs.

Other advertising on commercial television, commercial radio and pay TV is covered by the Advertising Standards Bureau code of practice.

The ACMA also administers the national regulatory scheme for internet content. The scheme was established under the Broadcasting Services Act 1992, and is designed to address community concerns about offensive and illegal material on the internet.

The ACMA's main responsibilities for content and advertising regulation are grouped below.

Spam

• General information about spam, including FAQs.
• Codes of conduct and advice on making complaints about spam.

Broadcasting

• Information on broadcasting content regulation for television and radio, including advertising, codes and standards, children's television and local content.
• Procedures for lodging complaints with the broadcaster or with the ACMA.

Internet

• Information on online content controls, including internet gambling, complaint statistics and sample investigation reports.
• Advice for parents and carers to ensure that children and teenagers enjoy a safe and productive experience on the internet.

Telecommunications

• Information on phone advertising and content controls, including premium services and complaint mechanisms.
• Details of the Do Not Call Register.