Media Standards Authorities

If you've found this page you are likely to have seen something about mental illness in the media that you feel is discriminatory and unacceptable. You may feel that what you have seen breaches broadcasting or print media standards and is worthy of a higher level of complaint. 

Why are formal complaints important?

Making a formal complaint is the best way for us, as viewers, listeners and readers of the media, to have our say about what we think is acceptable to publish or broadcast. Things won't change if no one speaks out. 

Media complaint authorities

To get a copy of the print, broadcast or advertising industry's codes of practice or to find out how to make a formal complaint, contact the relevant complaint authority below. There is no cost involved in making a complaint to the BSA, ASA or NZPC. 

For complaints about television or radio

Broadcasting Standards Authority 
PO Box 9213 (2nd floor, 54-56 Cambridge Terrace) 
Wellington 6141
Ph (04) 382 9508 
Fax (04) 382 9543 

BSA codes and standards

For complaints about any form of advertising

Advertising Standards Authority 
The Secretary Advertising Standards Complaints Board 
PO Box 10-675 
Wellington 6143
Ph 0800 ADHELP (0800 234 357) 
Fax (04) 471 1785 

ASA codes of conduct 

For complaints about newspaper or magazine content:

New Zealand Press Council 
The Secretary 
New Zealand Press Council 
PO Box 10-879 
The Terrace 
Wellington 6143
Ph (04) 473 5220 

NZPC principles