28.1.1

Licensees must report news truthfully, accurately and fairly.

28.1.2

News must be presented in the correct context and in a fair manner,
without intentional or negligent departure from the facts, whether by –

28.1.2.1

distortion, exaggeration or misrepresentation;

28.1.2.2

material omissions; or

28.1.2.3

summarisation.

28.1.3

Only that which may reasonably be true, having due regard to the
source of the news, may be presented as fact, and such fact must be
broadcast fairly with due regard to context and importance. If a report
is not based on fact or is founded on opinion, supposition, rumours or
allegations, it must be presented in such manner as to indicate clearly
that such is the case.

28.1.4

If there is reason to doubt the correctness of the report and it is
practicable to verify the correctness thereof, it must be verified. If such
verification is not practicable, that fact must be mentioned in the report.

28.1.5

If it subsequently appears that a broadcast report was incorrect in a
material respect, it must be immediately rectified and without
reservation. The rectification must be presented with such a degree of
prominence and timing as in the circumstances may be adequate and
fair so as to readily attract attention.

28.1.6

The identity of rape victims and other victims of sexual violence must
not be divulged in any broadcast without the prior consent of the victim
concerned.

28.1.7

Licensees must advise viewers in advance of scenes or reporting of
extraordinary violence, or graphic reporting on delicate subject-matter
such as sexual assault or court action related to sexual crimes,
particularly during afternoon or early evening newscasts and updates
when children would probably be in the audience.

28.1.8

Licensees must employ discretion in the use of explicit or graphic
language related to stories of destruction, accidents or sexual violence
which could disturb children and sensitive audiences.

28.2

Comment

28.2.1

Licensees may broadcast comment on and criticism of any actions or
events of public importance.

28.2.2

Comment must be an honest expression of opinion and must be
presented in such manner that it appears clearly to be comment, and
must be made on facts truly stated or fairly indicated and referred to.

28.3

Controversial Issues of Public Importance

Select target paragraph3