Draft White Paper on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services: Comment Deadline Extended

Posted 11 July 2025 Written by Acts Online
Category Communications & Digital Technologies

Brought to you by SA Legal Academy: The Department of Communications & Digital Technologies has gazetted an extension for public submissions regarding the draft White Paper on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services (AAVMS) and Online Safety.

In terms of a notice published in the Government Gazette on 5 August 2025, the deadline for public commentary has been extended to 26 September 2025. The draft policy document aims to overhaul the regulatory environment for the media sector, which the Department acknowledges was designed for an analogue era and is currently ill-equipped to manage the shift toward digital, non-linear consumption.

The draft White Paper identifies several regulatory gaps resulting from the rise of global streaming platforms and user-generated content. Key objectives of the proposed policy include:

  • The creation of a technology-neutral regulatory framework that encompasses both traditional broadcasting and digital audiovisual media services.
  • The implementation of online safety measures to protect consumers from harmful content across various platforms.
  • The promotion of local content development through updated investment requirements and quotas.
  • The standardisation of licensing requirements to ensure equitable competition between domestic broadcasters and international streaming entities.

Click here to download the Notice extending the commentary deadline.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: Monitor the transition from traditional broadcasting definitions to broader audiovisual service categories to ensure accurate legal advice on jurisdictional reach as the policy moves toward legislation.
  • For your business: Media and technology firms should evaluate the impact of proposed local content quotas and potential new licensing fees on their current South African operational models.
  • For your clients: Digital platform operators and content aggregators must prepare for a more rigorous compliance environment regarding online safety and consumer protection standards.

Originally published at https://legalacademy.co.za/news/read/audio-audiovisual-media-services-input-sought-on-draft-white-paper

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