Commerical Radio Code Review

To have your say, make a submission by 18th May at Code Review

ARIA Member Guide

What is the Commercial Radio Code of Practise?

The Radio Code is a set of rules and guidelines that governs the content and operations of commercial radio stations in Australia.

It aims to ensure that radio content aligns with community standards, promoting a responsible, diverse, and ethical broadcasting environment.

The code covers areas such as Australian music content, advertising, news standards, and how radio stations should engage with their audiences.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How do the quotas currently operate?

• Commercial radio stations are required to play a percentage of Australian music depending on how they are classified.
• Classification is self-determined and a station can be designated to play anywhere from no local content up to 25% Australian content.
• Local content can be played any time between 6am - midnight.
• A portion of the quota must feature recent Australian releases (recent Australian releases under the guidelines refers to releases from the prior 12 months)
• Quotas are self regulated, but are currently audited by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
• Quotas don’t fully apply to digital-only stations.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What is ARIA and PPCA’s Position?

ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) and PPCA (Phonographic Performance Company of Australia) are advocating for the following changes during the Radio Code review to support Australian music:

1. Local Music in Prime Time: Make sure local tunes get airplay when it counts - when most people are listening to the radio, not overnight. The current code doesn’t indicate when Australian music is played, only how much. This has led to Australian music being played in off-peak times.
2. Stronger Quotas, Bigger Impact: We want to hear all commercial radio stations playing 25% Australian music, no matter the format. Some are only playing 5%, while there is no metropolitan station playing the highest percentage at all!
3. Champion Fresh and Local: Redefine “new music” so fresh local talent gets real radio time, not just a token spin.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Why is the Review Important?

Impact on the Industry: Changes to the Radio Code can significantly affect how Australian music is played on commercial radio, providing better opportunities for local artists and improving diversity in music programming.

Cultural Relevance: The review is an opportunity to ensure that radio continues to reflect the diverse tastes and interests of Australian listeners, ensuring cultural relevance and promoting Australian talent.

Consumer Benefits: A robust code benefits radio audiences by maintaining high-quality, balanced, and relevant content, including access to a wider range of local music.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How to Participate in the Review

Consult with ARIA: If you're unsure about your position or need help formulating your submission, ARIA is a key resource. We can provide guidance, support, and insight into the process.

Lodge a Submission: Submit your feedback via the CRA's designated submission portal, making sure to clearly outline your views and how they align with your objectives for Australian music promotion.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Tips for Crafting a Strong Submission

Be Specific: Focus on clear, specific points you want to change or maintain in the code. Use examples where possible.

Industry Backed, Community Supported: Support other industry positions, including ARIA, and get as much community support as possible.

Stay Focused: Don’t try to address everything at once. Stick to the most important points and make them well, rather than covering too many areas without depth.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What Happens After the Submission?

Review of Submissions: CRA will analyse all submissions and consider them when finalising their position on the changes to the Radio Code.

Public Consultation: There may be public consultations or additional feedback requests following your submission. This is another opportunity for you to share further thoughts or clarify your position.

Final Decisions: Once the review is complete, CRA will publish its findings and implement changes to the Radio Code if necessary. These changes will impact how Australian music is featured across commercial radio stations.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How is this different from the Radio Caps?

The Radio Caps limit how much PPCA can negotiate with commercial radio and the ABC for the use of sound recordings. Radio Fair Play is a campaign by PPCA to have the caps removed so a fair negotiation can take place on behalf of artists and rightsholders.

Radio Quotas refer to the minimum percentage of Australian music required to be played by commercial radio stations. The quotas are designed to ensure Australian stories are heard by Australian audiences.

To have your say, make a submission by 18th May at Code Review