Assessment procedures All C and P programs must be assessed and classified by the ACMA before they are broadcast on free-to-air commercial television. In cases where further advice is necessary, the ACMA requests specialist advice from independent ‘peer’ consultants from the production industry and/or child development consultants. All new programs submitted for Provisional P and P classification are sent to specialist consultants before final assessment. These consultants are usually early childhood/child development experts and, on occasion, either production or script assessment experts. In some cases, the ACMA may seek a consultant’s advice for C applications.
How long does classification take? C and P applications are assessed within 60 days.
Can I consult with the ACMA about my program?
Applicants can seek informal feedback from the ACMA about storylines and script issues prior to submitting their application. However, the ACMA is not resourced to provide detailed informal feedback. More detailed feedback can be provided after the ACMA receives a formal application for classification. The Provisional C and Provisional P classification categories are designed to allow formal feedback from the ACMA at an early point in the production process. When possible, the ACMA will discuss its preliminary assessment of a program with the program producer in an effort to resolve any perceived problems.
Does a C or P classification mean my program complies with all aspects of the CTS?
The ACMA makes its classification decisions on C and P programs on the basis of whether or not a program meets the requirements at CTS 6. This decision does not assess the program’s compliance with other aspects of the CTS, such as restrictions on advertising material. As classification decisions are made on the basis of sample material, the ACMA is unable to determine whether or not a program will comply with other provisions of the CTS. The ACMA does not classify or provide advice about advertisements broadcast on commercial free-to-air television. Free TV Australia provides classification and information services to advertisers, agencies and production houses for television commercials.
What happens if classification is refused?
If a program is refused classification under the CTS, the ACMA gives the applicant a statement of reasons for its decision. The statement sets out those areas where the program failed to meet the criteria against CTS 6. Programs refused classification can be resubmitted but the applicant must make an effort to address the reasons the program failed CTS 6, as set out in the statement of reasons.
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