Catching Milat promo complaint upheld November 3, 2015

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has investigated complaints about Channel Seven Adelaide Pty Ltd’s broadcasts of the mini-series, Catching Milat, and two related program promotions aired in the G classified program Better Homes and Gardens.

Following a complaint by a parent, ACMA found that the promotions breached the G classification requirements and special restrictions applicable to promotions broadcast during G classified programs between 7.00 pm and 8.30 pm, in relation to the two program promotions.  Each of the promotions, which aired at 7.30pm on 15 and 22 May this year on 7Two, were seen as exceeding the classification requirements due to the frequency and intensity of their content. The ACMA found that 'cumulatively, the promotions exceeded a very mild viewing impact and had more than a very low sense of threat and menace to children'. ACCM had also complained about these promotions, but the parent complaint was already being investigated.

ACCM also lodged a complaint about Channel Seven's classification of the mini-series as M when the DVD of the series was rated MA15+ by the Australian Classification Board. This was not upheld. ACMA ruled that this not breach the classification provisions 'due to the careful handling of the closely-linked themes and violence.'

Read more on the ACMA website