Code 1: Application

These Codes apply to all licensed broadcasting services operating under this framework.

PHAZE RN (and all its subsidiaries) comply with these codes, noting that minor, incidental, or unavoidable breaches outside reasonable control may not constitute non-compliance where due diligence has been exercised.

Information about the codes must be made publicly accessible, including regular on-air announcements and availability via digital platforms.

The codes are reviewed periodically, typically every three to five years.

Code 2: Governance

Organisations must maintain and adhere to robust governance structures, including:

• A constitution or equivalent governing document
• Formal governance policies

These documents, along with annual reports and financial statements, must be publicly accessible.

Appropriate training must be provided to ensure all personnel understand their legal and ethical obligations.

Code 3: Diversity, Independence and Audience Engagement

Organisations must demonstrate a clear understanding of their audience.

Programming must reflect the diversity, needs, and interests of that audience, including locally relevant content.

Participation should be actively encouraged, particularly from individuals and groups underrepresented in mainstream media.

Transparency must be maintained regarding how audience input influences content and operations.

Code 4: Content Standards

Content must not:

• Mislead or cause unnecessary alarm
• Promote harmful or illegal behaviour
• Encourage excessive gambling
• Harm or distress children without warning
• Present suicide irresponsibly
• Incite violence or hatred
• Discriminate against individuals or groups

Context is critical. Legitimate reporting, satire, artistic expression, and public interest content remain permissible when handled responsibly.

Privacy must be respected unless there is a clear public interest or informed consent.

Special care must be taken when content involves children or sensitive matters.

Code 5: News and Journalistic Integrity

All news and journalistic content must:

• Be accurate and fairly presented
• Maintain due impartiality in news reporting
• Represent diverse perspectives
• Clearly distinguish fact from opinion or entertainment
• Avoid spreading misinformation or disinformation
• Correct significant errors promptly
• Disclose conflicts of interest

Journalists must identify themselves and their organisation before conducting interviews.

Code 6: Emergency Broadcasting

Where emergency broadcasting is provided, organisations must ensure:

• Information is accurate, timely, and reliable
• Content is locally relevant
• Communication is accessible, including in multiple languages where possible

Code 7: First Nations Engagement

Organisations must:

• Demonstrate cultural respect and sensitivity
• Build relationships with First Nations communities
• Involve First Nations voices in relevant content
• Follow cultural protocols and appropriate language use
• Prioritise First Nations perspectives on related issues

Code 8: Australian Content

A minimum proportion of Australian music must be broadcast across programming, calculated monthly.

This requirement supports local artists and the national creative industry.

Code 9: Sponsorship

Editorial independence must be maintained at all times.

Sponsors must not influence content, programming decisions, or access to airtime.

Conflicts of interest must be avoided or clearly disclosed.

Code 10: Complaints and Disputes

Organisations must:

• Handle complaints fairly, respectfully, and promptly
• Maintain clear complaints and dispute resolution processes
• Keep detailed records of complaints and outcomes
• Provide transparent pathways for escalation

Complaints should first be addressed internally. External escalation pathways remain available where appropriate.

Certain complaints (e.g. vexatious or abusive submissions) may not require resolution.