2GB breaks commercial disclosure rules

2GB is in hot water with regulator the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) about failing to disclose commercial agreements.

An ACMA investigation found the now defunct Alan Jones Breakfast Show did not inform its listeners about a commercial arrangement it had with The Star Entertainment Group.

At multiple points throughout September and October 2019, while the commercial agreement was in place, Jones discussed the Ritz-Carlton development, which was commissioned by The Star.

ACMA chair Nerida O’Loughlin said the commercial radio disclosure rules have been in place since 2000 and it’s “disappointing” that 2GB failed to meet its obligations.

“Licensees and presenters must let their audience know if a sponsor has a commercial interest in material being broadcast that is directly favourable to the sponsor,” she said.

“These rules exist so that audiences are properly informed and are able to make up their own minds about what they hear on commercial radio.

Jones has since retired from 2GB, however the licensee has been instructed to conduct formal training with all relevant staff on the requirements of the Disclosure Standard within six months. In addition, it must establish systems, processes and practices to ensure ongoing compliance, and introduce methods to monitor the effectiveness of these measures within one month.

From there, it must provide a report to the ACMA by October which details the steps it took.

If 2GB does not take these steps, ACMA may seek civil penalties.

At the time of the breach, 2GB’s parent company was still known as Macquarie Media, rather than Nine Radio, however Nine has since assumed full control of the operation.

Nine Radio has been approached for comment.