Free TV Australia welcomes the findings of the Australian Communications and Media Authority’s (ACMA) investigation into coverage by Australian broadcasters of the terrorist attack in Christchurch on 15 March 2019.
Free TV Australia CEO, Bridget Fair, said: “I am proud of the way that Free TV members covered a very difficult and challenging event. The role of broadcasters in keeping the public fully informed about significant events is a critical one. The news teams of all commercial free-to-air television broadcasters deserve recognition for the considered and responsible way they dealt with extremely difficult editorial decisions as new information came to light.
“Free TV is pleased that the ACMA determined that all broadcasters acted responsibly and with regard to our Code of Practice. These are not easy calls to make as news unfolds.
“We note the ACMA’s invitation to engage in a discussion around the content of our Code. Free TV believes that the principles-based approach in our Code ensures that it is adaptable to multiple fact situations but we will certainly engage constructively with the Authority to determine if the Code needs updating in light of these circumstances.”