29 May 2007
ACMA finds SBS incorrectly classified episode of Inspector Rex
The Australian Communications and Media Authority has found that the Special Broadcasting Service Corporation (SBS) breached Code 4 of the SBS Codes of Practice 2006 by broadcasting an incorrectly classified episode of the program Inspector Rex on 16 November 2006.
In response to a complaint received on 31 December 2006, ACMA found that material in certain scenes was not sufficiently mild and discreet to be classified PG.
The guidelines for PG-classified programs require that sexual activity be mild in impact, discreetly implied, and justified by context.
SBS acknowledged it had incorrectly classified the program and advised ACMA that it had apologised to the complainant for the breach. The broadcaster further advised that it did not intend to broadcast the episode in question again, and that it had discussed the reasons behind the finding of the breach with staff directly involved in the program’s classification.
ACMA also found that SBS had complied with Code 8 in dealing with the complaint in the first instance.
ACMA does not propose to take any further action in relation to the matter at this time.
ACMA’s investigation report #1793 can be viewed on ACMA’s website.
Media contact: Donald Robertson, ACMA Media Manager, on (02) 9334 7980.
Backgrounder
Complaints about national broadcasters
Under section 150 of the Broadcasting Services Act 1992, if a person complains to the ABC or SBS about a matter that is covered by a code of practice and does not receive a satisfactory response within 60 days, the person can refer the complaint to ACMA.
Further information about ACMA’s complaint-handling role is available on its website.
SBS Code of Practice 2006
The SBS Code of Practice 2006 can be viewed on the SBS website at http://www20.sbs.com.au/sbscorporate/index.php?id=1065.
