Radio rape prank could alter radio rules

AUSTRALIA'S media watchdog will explore new protections for minors in the wake of The Kyle And Jackie O Show lie-detector test scandal.

Sickening stunt ... 2DayFM presenters Jackie O and Kyle Sandilands.

AUSTRALIA'S media watchdog will explore new protections for minors and industry guidelines for radio "pranks" in the wake of The Kyle And Jackie O Show lie-detector test scandal.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority said yesterday public concern over the treatment of a 14-year-old rape victim during a July 29 stunt on the 2DayFM breakfast program prompted its new investigation.

It will look into whether the broadcasting code provided adequate safeguards for participants in live stunts, competitions and challenges across all Australian radio stations. Chairman Chris Chapman said it would also examine the code's complaints process, which has tied ACMA's hands in responding to the radio rape ordeal.

Public fury over the incident has so far forced Austereo star Kyle Sandilands and his sidekick Jackie O off air, costing the shock jock his $1 million TV contract and advertising support for the radio show.

Mr Chapman said while the broadcasting sector was entitled to "experiment with program genres and styles which may be attractive to its audiences" fallout from the 2DayFM saga had forced a re-evaluation of the rules governing radio.

The investigation will be in addition to any specific investigation that ACMA may undertake into the recent episode of the Kyle And Jackie O Show.

The regulatory body said it expected broadcasters to deal with matters of such strong community concern quickly and effectively and said it would be considering very carefully the actions taken by the licensee to address the concerns of the community about this incident.

ACMAcalled for submissions from the public and the industry by September 30.

"ACMA acknowledges that the broadcasting sector should generally be able to experiment with program genres and styles," Mr Chapman said.

"However, there is emerging evidence the current regulatory arrangements may not be keeping pace."

Despite launching an internal review of its "practises and protocols" Austereo was yet to take further action over the segment or respond to complaints.