ACMA could trigger review of KIIS FM host Kyle Sandilands’ interview with Barnaby Joyce

RADIO shock jock Kyle Sandilands is no stranger to complaints. But this one has gone all the way to Parliament.

RADIO shock jock Kyle Sandilands went head-to-head with Australian Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce earlier this month but it now appears Sandilands went too far.

Mr Joyce was labelled an “insensitive wanker” and “a disgrace” for threatening to have the pet dogs of Hollywood star Johnny Depp euthanised.

A Senate estimates hearing on Thursday heard the Australian Communications and Media Authority could trigger a review into Sandilands’ behaviour.

Mr Joyce wrote two letters complaining about his on-air treatment following the May 15 KIIS FM interview.

The first letter was sent from his office to KIIS FM demanding an apology. The second letter was sent to ACMA asking the media authority to consider an investigation. According to Fairfax reports, ACMA’s policy is to wait for the broadcaster to respond to a complaint before proceeding with its own review.

Barnaby Joyce wants an apology.

Did Kyle Sandilands go too far?

During the interview, Sandilands questioned the minister’s handling of Pistol and Boo’s quarantine ordeal by telling Depp to “bugger off”.

“You sound like an absolute clown telling the guy to bugger off back to Hollywood or we’ll kill his dogs,” Sandilands said.

“You sound like an idiot. You should have reworded your statement.

“You’re a government minister — have some decency.”

Mr Joyce said Sandilands was being hypocritical. That did not help the situation.

“Oh shut up, Barnaby. You’re an absolute joke, Barnaby!

“I’m going off because you sound like an insensitive wanker.”

An Australian Radio Network spokesperson said: “Per our statement issued on May 18, since the interview occurred we’ve been in discussion with the office of Mr Joyce, Minister for Agriculture. We confirm that we have received correspondence from My Joyce’s office, and are responding in accordance with Commercial Radio Australia Codes of Practice and ACMA requirements.”

Pistol and Boo leaving a New York hotel. Picture: Splash News