Kiis FM has been banned from broadcasting strong sexual content on any program hosted by Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson for the next five years, with the regulator warning that breaches could lead to the cancellation of the radio station's licence. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (Acma) imposed the additional licence conditions on KIIS FM Sydney and Kiis FM Melbourne after repeated breaches of the decency provision of the commercial radio code of practice.
The ban 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 the services agreement. Sandilands has until 17 March to show how he will remedy the alleged breach or face contract termination.
Henderson said she could no longer work with Sandilands after an incident on 20 February, in which he mocked her interest in astrology. Sandilands has apologised, saying he said things he wished he had said differently. Henderson stated she did not quit or resign and was deeply saddened by the potential end of the show.
Acma chair Nerida O'Loughlin said the licence condition follows multiple failures by the licensees to meet their obligations. Breaches included airing audio clips of staff urinating, an offensive description of a sexual position, and lewd discussions about masturbation and pornography. ARN Media acknowledged the decision and said it had already taken steps to ensure compliance.
