Kiis FM could face cancellation of its radio station licence if it breaches a new ban on strong sexual content in programs hosted by Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson, the broadcasting regulator has warned. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (Acma) imposed the licence condition on the licensees of Kiis FM Sydney and Kiis FM Melbourne for five years, following repeated breaches of the decency provision of the commercial radio code of practice.
The penalty comes two weeks after the Kyle & Jackie O Show was taken off air and Henderson's contract with ARN Media was terminated. ARN provided written notice to Sandilands stating that his behaviour during a show last month constituted serious misconduct in breach of his services agreement. Sandilands has until Tuesday 17 March to remedy the alleged breach or face contract termination.
Acma chair Nerida O'Loughlin said the licence condition follows multiple failures by the licensees to meet their obligations under the code. 'To date ARN management have been unwilling or unable to control the content that has gone to air,' O'Loughlin said. The breaches included episodes of a guessing game where audio clips of staff urinating were aired, a game with an offensive description of a sexual position, and lewd discussions about masturbation and pornography.
ARN Media acknowledged and respected Acma's decision, stating it would review the decision and consider options. The company said it had already taken steps to ensure compliance and brand safety. Sandilands apologised to Henderson over the on-air argument on 20 February, saying he had said things he wished he had said differently. Henderson said she did not quit or resign and was deeply saddened the show may end.
