Broadcasters Kyle Sandilands and Jackie "Jackie O" Henderson have been found to breach decency standards as determined by the radio industry watchdog. This significant ruling comes amidst ongoing discussions about what constitutes acceptable content in media.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has determined that two segments aired on Melbourne‘s KISS 1011 and Sydney‘s KISS 1065 in June last year featured "vulgar graphic sexualised descriptions" that crossed the line of decency.
ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin stated that the segments would be deemed offensive to any "reasonable person" listening, indicating a strong stance on community standards in broadcasting.
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"This content went beyond the bounds of decency expected by the community and was done deliberately and provocatively," O’Loughlin emphasized, reinforcing the importance of adhering to ethical broadcasting standards.
The investigations were initiated following a listener complaint, highlighting the role of audience feedback in maintaining decency in media.
Double T Radio was also found to have breached the Commercial Radio Code of Practice by failing to respond to a listener complaint within the stipulated 30 days.
In response, Radio station KIIS defended its programming, claiming it is suitable for its "broad-minded adult demographic." This defense raises questions about the balance between creative expression and community standards.
The station has employed censors for the show since it was found to have breached decency standards in 2023 during a segment that controversially referred to the Paralympics as the "Special Olympics."
"Despite having two program censors in place following previous ACMA enforcement action, unsuitable content still aired," O’Loughlin noted, indicating ongoing challenges in content moderation.
Currently, no fines or penalties will be imposed as the authority continues its investigations into the show and network, making this an ongoing issue of public interest.
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