Latest decisions and news from Ad Standards
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Vodafone | Breach | AANA Code of Ethics
A Vodafone TV and social media ad featuring comedian Ali Wong delivering the line “Get coverage where 98.5% of you actually live”, raised concerns that it implied rural and remote communities are insignificant and made light of the challenges they face in accessing essential services.
The Community Panel found that the dismissive tone downplayed the importance of connectivity for people needing it for health, safety, and social inclusion, and risked psychological harm by marginalising regional communities and suggesting they matter less than those in cities.
Lindt | No breach | AANA Food and Beverages Code
A TV ad for Lindt’s chocolate bunny showing chocolate being poured into a mould, raised concerns that it created a misleading impression that the bunnies are solid rather than hollow.
The Community Panel found that given the setting and tone of the ad, most viewers would recognise a level of exaggeration and wouldn’t expect the bunnies to be solid chocolate in real life.
Hnry | Breach | AANA Code of Ethics
A YouTube ad for Hnry, a tax service, raised concerns around bullying and unnecessary violence.
The Community Panel considered that while the ad intended to show a light-hearted exchange between friends, the scenes showing a man being berated and hit crossed the line into bullying and violent behaviour, and wasn't justifiable in promoting the service.
Volkswagen Group Australia | No breach | FCAI Code
A Volkswagen TV ad featuring a couple rushing to a wedding raised concerns that it portrayed dangerous off-road driving.
The Community Panel found that while the vehicle was shown travelling across various countryside terrains, including a river crossing, none of the scenes depicted reckless behaviour, and all relevant road rules appeared to be followed.
Interested in more?
- Spotminders – Breach | AANA Code of Ethics
- Thin Lizzy – No breach | AANA Children’s Code & AANA Code of Ethics
- Barry James Smash Repairs – No breach | AANA Code of Ethics
Just like Australia, many countries rely on self-regulation to keep ads in check. As a founding member of ICAS, the International Council for Ad Self-Regulation, Ad Standards Australia plays an active role in a global network dedicated to strengthening responsible advertising.
ICAS recently released its 2025 Global SRO Factbook, showcasing how self-regulation operates around the world and highlighting the role SROs play in maintaining high standards across the advertising landscape. It’s a useful snapshot comparing approaches across countries and a great way to see how Australia contributes to the bigger picture.
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The service is efficient, cost-effective, and helps put your next campaign in the best position to avoid possible breaches of the advertising codes including the Code of Ethics, Environmental Claims Code, Food and Beverages Code and the Children’s Advertising Code.
