The penalty for 2DayFM’s 2012 royal prank, which tragically played a part in the suicide of Jacintha Saldanha, has been announced today.
As per stipulations from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACME), 2DayFM will have to broadcast a three-hour special programme promoting the discussion of media ethics and the signs of bullying, depression, and anxiety, which will go to air later this year.
And according to AdNews, 2DayFM won’t be profiting from it: the programme will either be commercial-free, or will donate all advertising revenue to charity.
Other actions include mandatory ethics training for all staff, and a three year period during which they cannot air an interview where a person can be identified without either warning the person first, or getting consent.
“It goes without question that 2DayFM and its presenters intended no harm to anyone as a result of the prank call,” said Chairman of Southern Cross Austereo Peter Bush. “We accept the ACMA’s finding that 2DayFM was in breach when it failed to obtain consent from the nurses involved before broadcasting the recording of the prank call.”
“2DayFM deeply regrets and apologises for its breaches and has agreed with the ACMA several actions that will be taken in response to the matter.”
In March this year, the High Court ruled that 2DayFM, Austereo, and DJs Mel Greig and Michael Christian had all broken the law when they broadcast the prank call.
For help or support in Australia, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au ot the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
