Turns Out ‘The Today Show’ Probably Broke The Law With Its Anzac Giveaway
How's that for hypocrisy?
The Today Show’s use of the word ‘Anzac’ as a code word in Wednesday’s cash giveaway was in breach of regulations to ensure respect for the word ‘Anzac’, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs says.
The breach could attract jail time or a fine of up to $51,000. All a bit awkward, given the show was up on its high horse just last week about the release date of Avengers: Infinity War, which was disrespectful to the Anzacs, according to Karl Stefanovic.
Under the Protection of Word ‘Anzac’ Act 1920, there are strict regulations as to when the word ‘Anzac’ can be used. Permission from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs is required for any use of the word in conjunction with a commercial business, entertainment or lottery.
The Today show’s use of the ‘Anzac’ as a codeword for a cash giveaway on Anzac Day qualifies as a circumstance where permission must be sought, but a Department of Veterans’ Affairs spokesperson told Junkee that the Nine Network had not sought any such permission.
TODAY SHOW: Anzac Day is sacred, how dare they release a blockbuster movie today!
ALSO TODAY SHOW: Win a block of cash with today’s competition codeword! pic.twitter.com/zRKw9nIOQw
— James Mathison (@jamesmathison) April 25, 2018
“Even if they had, permission would not normally be granted to use the word ‘Anzac’ in this manner,” the spokesperson added.
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs has reached out to the Nine Network to discuss the breach of regulations. While no decisions have been made yet, serious breaches of the rules can attract a penalty of up to 12 months jail time, or heavy fines.
But Nine says there was no breach.
“We are not in breach of the law. We will not be making any further comment on the matter,” a spokesperson said.