Rules in industry codes
Narrowcasters are required to follow rules in different codes of practice. There are rules for:
- open narrowcast – radio
- subscription narrowcast – radio
- open narrowcast – TV
- subscription narrowcast – TV.
Complaining about a narrowcasting service
If you think a narrowcaster has broken the rules in a Code, complain to the broadcaster first. If you are not satisfied with the response or do not receive a response, you can complain to the ACMA about ads on TV or radio or programs on TV or radio.
Or you can write to us at PO Box Q500, Queen Victoria Building, NSW 1230.
When you complain:
- clearly identify what you are complaining about and why
- provide details such as the date, time and program name
- include your name and contact details
- keep a record of the complaint and when you sent it.
Narrowcasting services must be limited in some way
A narrowcasting service is defined in the Broadcasting Services Act 1992 as a service whose reception is limited in one or more specified ways.
An open narrowcasting service is a broadcasting service whose reception is limited:
- by being targeted to special interest groups
- by being intended only for limited locations, for example, arenas or business premises
- by being provided during a limited period or to cover a special event
- because they provide programs which are of limited appeal
- for some other reason.
Our guidelines explain the different types of open narrowcasting services :
If you think a narrowcasting service is not limited in one of these specified ways, you can complain to the ACMA.
Or you can write to us at PO Box Q500, Queen Victoria Building, NSW 1230
Read here for more information about the Anti-terrorism standard that applies to narrowcasting TV services.
Check here for information about how to apply for a narrowcasting transmitter licence.