ADVERTISING STANDARDS
The ASTRA Codes of Practice for subscription broadcast television contain provisions relating to the content and scheduling of advertisements.
Advertisements broadcast by subscription television must comply with other relevant Australian Association of National Advertisers’ (AANA) Codes and advertising complaints must be referred to the Advertising Standards Bureau where appropriate.
ASTRA’s POSITION
ASTRA and its members will continue to actively apply and monitor the advertising codes of practice for the subscription television industry.
Unlike free to air broadcasting, subscription television service providers have a direct contractual relationship with the subscriber. This relationship offers the subscriber the freedom to select the programs they wish to receive. This choice means that expectations about programs and advertising contained on particular channels at particular times becomes relevant.
It is important to acknowledge the role that advertising plays in supporting the commercial operations and ongoing development of many subscription television channels.
ASTRA does not believe that banning certain types of advertising is the appropriate way to deal with health and social concerns that arise in the community from time to time.
Q&A
What types of issues are covered in the advertising codes of practice?
Some of the issues outlined in the advertising codes of practice relate to offensive advertising, dangerous behaviour, discrimination, tobacco advertising, and competitions.
How do I find out more about the advertising codes for subscription television?
Licensees will publicise the ASTRA Codes of Practice at regulator intervals in program guides. Customers will also be advised of the codes and complaints procedures when they sign up as subscribers. Copies of the Codes will be provided to the public on request – they are also available for download from the ASTRA website. (link to codes of practice page)
Are there special rules for advertising directed at children?
ASTRA recognises that special care must be taken in the broadcast of advertisements on channels intended for consumption by children. Advertisements broadcast within a block or blocks of programming aimed at children must comply with the AANA Code for Advertising to Children and the Food and Beverages Advertising & Marketing Communications Code.
