Alcohol Healthwatch welcomes the decision from the Broadcasting Standards Authority to uphold our complaint regarding a
MediaWorks radio station broadcast that advocated excessive alcohol consumption.
Whilst MediaWorks conceded the broadcast in April had breached the Radio Code’s standards around alcohol, Alcohol
Healthwatch found the actions taken by the broadcaster less than satisfactory. A complaint was then referred to the
Broadcasting Standards Authority.
Executive Director of Alcohol Healthwatch, Dr Nicki Jackson, said that, “We welcome the initial actions taken by
MediaWorks to work with content directors to reinforce the need and importance of appropriate alcohol messaging and the
intention to undertake staff training.”
“However, we strongly believe that the seriousness of excessive alcohol consumption in New Zealand warrants further
action being taken. Public acknowledgement of the breach of standards is essential. Communities need to be informed when
standards have been breached, and broadcasters need to be sincere in taking responsibility for upholding their own
standards. Without a public statement, communities could consider it acceptable for radio stations to promote heavy
drinking. This further normalises our harmful drinking culture,” says Dr Jackson.
The radio station has been ordered to broadcast a summary of the upheld aspects of the Broadcasting Standards
Authority’s decision.
“Broadcasting standards will diminish in meaning if broadcasters such as MediaWorks do not hold themselves accountable
to their own industry standards. Alcohol is our most harmful drug in society, and special care must be taken to not
contribute further to this harm. We can all play a positive role in creating a healthier future with less alcohol harm”
says Dr Jackson.