The ACMA registered the Code with effect from 1 January 2010. The new Code places a number of additional requirements on broadcasters. From 1 March 2010 broadcasters will be required to accept Code complaints made through an electronic lodgement process via the Free TV website.
The new Code will also provide increased protection for participants in Reality Television programs and includes amendments to strengthen the consumer advice requirements for MA15+ programs amongst a range of other protections.
In addition, the new Code includes an Appendix for the new digital Multi-Channels. There are two primary changes for the new digital multi-channels; an extension of the PG timezones in the morning and afternoons and some more flexibility in the limits for non program matter. In all other respects, the digital multi channels will be regulated in the same way as the core channels.
PG time zones for digital multi-channels will now include the hours between 6am and 8.30am and between 4pm and 7pm on weekdays and between 6am and 10am on weekends. These changes will improve choice for viewers in the mix of programming on offer on the digital multi-channels.
