The Australian Communications and Media Authority has ruled radio presenter Ray Hadley breached decency rules when he allegedly threatened physical assault against a social media user on-air.
The comment, which took place during a May 2019 episode, was made after a caller made a remark about Hadley’s grandaughter.
ACMA ruled Hadley’s language on-air, which included terms like “you flea” and “you low-life dog” were against the code. Hadley also reportedly implied if members of his family could locate the social media user who made the comments, the individual would “be drinking through a straw for a long, long time”.
ACMA chair Nerida O’Loughlin said Hadley’s comments broadcast on The Ray Hadley Morning Show on Triple M 105.1 Central West last year, were not appropriate for public radio broadcasting in Australia.
She said: “The ACMA recognises that Mr Hadley was being defensive of his granddaughter, however it is not appropriate for him to use his position as a public broadcaster to direct threatening comments towards an individual,” she said in a statement on Tuesday.
Triple M Central West has referred the matter to Hadley’s new employer, Nine Radio.
In response, ACMA said 2GB has counselled Hadley with 2GB and Triple M 105.1 Central West also ensuring its staff legal compliance training will reference the broadcast and breach findings.
