Deadline looms for television review

24 August 2018

Parents and caregivers have until the end of next week, 31 August 2018, to have their say about the timebands, parental locks and classifications labels that help to protect what their children watch on free-to-air television.

The Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) is considering whether changes should be made to the tools that have been widely used by New Zealanders for decades.

Hundreds of people have already given their feedback about whether there should still be restrictions around when certain programmes, including Adults Only, can be broadcast on free-to-air television.

BSA Chief Executive Belinda Moffat said: “We have visited communities around the country talking to people about these issues and have heard some strong views from parents and other caregivers who are responsible for children. We have valued the time that people have given to us to share their views.

“Hundreds of people have also filled in an online survey telling us what they think should happen, but we are keen to hear from as many more people as possible before we make a decision.”

Options being considered include removing all of the timeband restrictions, altering them, or keeping them the same.

The BSA is also considering whether free-to-air television should adopt the same classification labels as pay television to provide consistency. It would mean switching from G (General), PGR (Parental Guidance Recommended) and AO (Adults Only) to G, PG, M (Mature), 16 and 18.

The public consultation ends next Friday (31st August) and people can find out more about what is being considered and why by visiting bsa.govt.nz.

They can give their feedback through a short online survey, by emailing info@bsa.govt.nz or by writing to Broadcasting Standards Authority, PO Box 9213, Wellington 6141.

ENDS

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