ACMA investigation into broadcasts of Christchurch terrorist attack

The ACMA has commenced a formal investigation into whether content broadcast by commercial, national and subscription broadcasters of Friday’s terrorist attack in Christchurch breached current rules.

The ACMA said its investigation will focus on any content of the perpetrator-filmed, live streamed footage of the shootings that was broadcast on Australian television.

The ACMA is also concerned about content made available or linked to on broadcasters’ websites. While this is currently beyond its regulatory remit, the ACMA is in close contact with the Australian Press Council as it reviews its members’ coverage of the attack.

In the first instance, ACMA chair Nerida O’Loughlin will write to the CEOs of the commercial, national and subscription broadcasters requesting urgent information on the nature, extent and timing of the broadcast of content relating to the shootings, in particular from the day of the attack.

The ACMA will also request urgent meetings with the peak industry organisations – Free TV Australia and the Australian Subscription Television and Radio Association – to discuss whether current rules are providing adequate protections for Australian audiences.