TGA releases new guidance to explain when news content may be advertising

We have published new guidance to help journalists and news organisations understand when media reporting on therapeutic goods may be regulated as advertising.

News reports about therapeutic goods can play an important role in raising awareness and encouraging Australians to seek advice from a health professional. However, content presented as news may be considered advertising under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 if it promotes the use or supply of therapeutic goods.

The guidance explains:

• how to distinguish genuine news or media reporting from promotional content
• the factors we may consider when assessing whether content is advertising
• when editorial, educational or public-interest content may become promotional
• the limited exceptions that may be available to publishers and broadcasters
• how the principles apply in practice through worked examples.

Journalists and news organisations are encouraged to review the guidance when preparing or publishing content about therapeutic goods.

Read the guidance: Determining when news is subject to the therapeutic goods advertising rules.

We actively monitor advertising of therapeutic goods for potential non-compliance. Where serious non-compliance with the Act is identified, we will take enforcement action in accordance with our regulatory compliance framework.

If you suspect non-compliance in relation to therapeutic goods, or their advertising, you can report it to the TGA at any time.