SBS updates codes of practice

SBS has updated its code of practice to ensure the network is fulfilling its charter provide multilingual and multicultural radio, television and digital media services.

The updated codes maintain the principles and policies of the 2006 codes and acknowledges SBS’ new services and platforms such as NITV, SBS on demand and the expansion into radio.

Full statement below.

Friday 28 February, 2014

SBS UPDATES CODES OF PRACTICE

SBS has updated the Codes of Practice which outline the principles and policies SBS follows in fulfilling its Charter to provide multilingual and multicultural radio, television and digital media services that inform, educate and entertain all Australians.

The Codes of Practice set the benchmark for SBS programming and detail its obligations on matters such as television program classification, advertising and sponsorship, and complaints handling.

The 2014 Codes of Practice maintain and confirm the principles and policies of the 2006 Codes, and demonstrate SBS’s continued commitment to the SBS Charter in delivering programming that is relevant to and reflects Australia’s diverse communities.

They also acknowledge SBS’s new services and platforms, including the inclusion of National Indigenous Television (NITV) and its transmission free-to-air, the expansion of SBS Radio language programs, and the growth of online and emerging platforms, such as SBS ON DEMAND as well as inclusion of digital services in the SBS Charter.

SBS Managing Director Michael Ebeid said, “SBS has a responsibility to ensure its policies keep pace with Australia’s converging media landscape and to maintain the highest standards of broadcasting excellence, integrity and editorial independence across all platforms.

“Our purpose is to inspire all Australians to explore, appreciate and celebrate our diverse world, and by doing so contribute to a cohesive society. With the updated Codes of Practice and against the backdrop of a nation which continues to grow in cultural complexity, SBS will continue to deliver services and programs that are relevant to all Australians.”

The main change for audiences is that SBS has brought forward the time zone for programs classified MA15+ from 9:00pm to 8:30pm. This change will enhance SBS’s ability to support the viewing preferences of its audiences through greater flexibility in the scheduling of key programs, unmodified or edited, and is in response to the changing media consumption of audiences and widespread availability of parental controls in the transition to digital television. Daytime viewing periods are not affected by the change and MA15+ programs may only be shown after 8:30pm and before 5:00am.

Vikings Season 2 will be the first MA15+ program to air in the revised timeslot, from Monday 24 March at 8.30pm on SBS ONE.

The 2014 SBS Codes of Practice take effect on Monday 3 March 2014 and are available here.

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