ACMA finds Marty Sheargold Show in breach of decency standards

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has found four radio licensees in breach of the Commercial Radio Code of Practice following derogatory on-air remarks about women’s sport aired during the Marty Sheargold Show.

The ruling applies to Triple M Sydney Pty Ltd, Triple M Brisbane Pty Ltd, Gold Coast FM Pty Ltd, and Maryborough Broadcasting Company Pty Limited, all of which broadcast the segment in question.

During the program, the host compared the Matildas, Australia’s national women’s football team, to “Year 10 girls,” before mimicking their behaviour in a stereotypical manner. The comments were made in a demeaning tone and were followed by further inappropriate references, including one involving the host’s genitalia, which the ACMA described as “exacerbating” the offensive nature of the segment.

Carolyn Lidgerwood, Authority Member, said the show’s content “went beyond generally acceptable standards of decency.”

“Sexist comments like this don’t belong in Australian broadcasting,” Lidgerwood said. “Even if the comments were an extremely ill-judged attempt at humour, a reasonable listener would have found them offensive and to have crossed the line.”

In response to the incident, Southern Cross Austereo (SCA), which owns the Triple M network, ended its relationship with the host and cancelled the program. The decision was made shortly after the broadcast aired.

The ACMA confirmed it is now considering enforcement action against the four licensees and will make further announcements once a decision is finalised.

Keep on top of the most important media, marketing, and agency news each day with the Mediaweek Morning Report – delivered for free every morning to your inbox.