Broadcasting Standards Authority
The Broadcasting Standards Authority is an independent statutory body established under the Broadcasting Act 1989. The Authority's mission is 'To establish and maintain acceptable standards of broadcasting on all New Zealand radio and television, within the context of current social values, research and the principle of self-regulation, in a changing and deregulated industry.'
Purpose/Function:
- to receive and determine complaints from people dissatisfied with the outcome of complaints made to broadcasters, and complaints concerning privacy;
- to publicise complaints procedures;
- to issue to any or all broadcasters advisory opinions on broadcasting standards and ethical conduct in broadcasting;
- to encourage the development and observance of Codes of Practice; and
- to conduct research and publish findings on matters relating to standards in broadcasting.
Board Appointments:
The Board comprises the Chair and three members.
Members are appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Minister of Broadcasting for terms of up to three years and are eligible for reappointment.
The Chair must be a barrister or solicitor of not less than 7 years standing, one member is appointed after consultation with representatives of the broadcasting industry, and another appointed after consultation with public interest groups.
Skills and Experience:
As well as the governance skills mentioned on the Governance front page, specific skills required for this Board include:
- public policy experience
- ability to work with a team of three other Authority members
- an interest in ethical issues
- extensive experience working in radio or television broadcasting
- knowledge/experience of community groups in areas such as broadcasting issues, consumer affairs or public advocacy.
Time Commitment:
11 two-day meetings per annum, with considerable preparation time for each meeting.
Board Membership (expiry of term in brackets):
- Joanne Morris – Chair (December 2009)
- Tapu Misa (April 2010)
- Paul France (September 2009)
- Mary Shanahan (June 2012)