ACMA Questioned Over The Code of Practice Regarding Reporting on Alleged Crime

Everyone has the right to a fair trial, but a fair trial is compromised when the media run stories based on allegations and not facts which influences public opinion and potentially a jury. The media should not undermine the judicial process and in Senate estimates this week, I asked a question of the Australian Communications and Media Authority about whether the media have a code of conduct that they follow, regarding criminal allegations. The answer appeared to be no and that it may be up to the individual broadcasters in their policies, but the Australian Communications and Media Authority will get back to me with more information.