The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has found Channel Seven Adelaide Pty Ltd breached rules relating to privacy and the broadcast of distressing material involving a child.
The ACMA investigation found that details included in the broadcast may have enabled people to identify the child and the broadcast was likely to have caused distress to viewers.
The ACMA found that there was insufficient public interest to justify the broadcast.
ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood said Channel Seven Adelaide failed to exercise due care in broadcasting the sensitive material.
“While the child was not named and their face was blurred, 7 News included details that could have enabled people to recognise the child during what was already a very distressing time for the family,” Ms Lidgerwood said.
“Most egregiously, Channel Seven knew how distressing the matter was as a parent asked that they stop filming the incident.
“Any public interest in broadcasting the upsetting material was far outweighed by the likely distress caused to the child and their family.”
The broadcast identified the location of the incident and showed the child illuminated by a spotlight. At times the camera also zoomed in on the child, which revealed information about their physique, mannerisms and school uniform.
“These details could have made the child identifiable, particularly to people in the school community and local neighbourhood,” Ms Lidgerwood said.
The ACMA is considering appropriate enforcement action and will publish the outcome once its decision has been finalised.
If you are affected by this story, free 24/7 support is available from Lifeline (13 11 14) and Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800).
MR 26/2026