How to get your ad on TV in Australia

Getting your ad on TV in Australia can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate the process smoothly. This blog post covers everything you need to know about getting your TV commercial approved, dispatched, and broadcast. From understanding ClearAds compliance to submitting your ad through AdStream and creating a unique Key Number, we’ve got you covered.

Step 1: ClearAds Approval

ClearAds Approval ensures your TV commercial meets broadcast standards and does not breach any advertising regulations in Australia. Follow these steps for ClearAds Approval:

Prepare Your Materials: Gather your script, final edit (creative), and evidence to support any claims made in the ad.
Submit to ClearAds: Send your materials to ClearAds for review.
Receive Approval Number: Once approved, ClearAds will issue an approval number required for AdStream upload.

ClearAds requires at least two working days to process an application, but it can take longer if additional information is requested. Therefore, we recommend allowing at least five business days in your post-production schedule for potential revisions.

To avoid delays, apply for a Pre-Check with ClearAds. Submit your script and storyboard for preliminary approval to flag potential issues early. Final approval is still required before broadcast.

For cost information about ClearAds checks and pre-checks, visit their website ClearAds Fees 2022.

Step 2: Generating a Unique Key Number

A key number is a unique 13-character alphanumeric sequence used to identify your ad. Here’s how to create one:

Job Identifier: Use ‘J’ followed by three digits of the unique job number (e.g., J801).
Client’s Brand Name: Use the first three letters of the brand name (e.g., Nike = NIK).
Campaign Name: Use the first three letters of the campaign name (e.g., Zoom = ZOO).
Ad Length: Include the length of the edit (e.g., 30-second ad = 30).
Edit Version: Add a letter to denote different versions of the same ad (e.g., A, B, C).

Example key number: J801NIKZ0030A

Step 3: Preparing and Dispatching Your Video to AdStream or Peach

AdStream and Peach are the leading platforms in Australia for submitting and quality-checking videos for broadcast. Here’s how to dispatch your files:

Render Video Files: Ensure your editor renders the video files to the required specifications.
Submit to AdStream or Peach: Upload your video and quality check it on the platform.
Select Network and Channel: Choose the network and channel for broadcast.
Complete Payment: Complete the payment and await confirmation.

If your video fails the quality test, you can ask your editor to resolve the problem based on the AdStream report, or pay AdStream a fee to fix the quality issue.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth process for getting your TV commercial approved, dispatched, and broadcast in Australia.

FAQs

Q: What is the process for getting a TV commercial approved in Australia?
A: Before your ad can go to air, it must be reviewed and approved by ClearAds, the governing body for TV advertising standards in Australia. You’ll need to submit your script, final edit, and any supporting evidence to ClearAds for review. Once approved, they’ll issue an approval number, which is required before uploading your ad to platforms like AdStream or Peach.

Q: How long does ClearAds approval take?
A: ClearAds typically takes two working days to process an application, but this can take longer if they request additional information or revisions. We recommend allowing at least five business days in your post-production schedule to accommodate potential changes. Submitting a Pre-Check (with your script and storyboard) early in the process can also help flag issues and avoid delays.

Q: What is a ClearAds Pre-Check and why should I do one?
A: A ClearAds Pre-Check is an optional early submission where you send your script and storyboard for preliminary feedback before producing your ad. This helps identify potential compliance issues early, saving time and revision costs later. Even with a Pre-Check, a final ClearAds approval is still required before broadcast.

Q: What is a Key Number and how do I create one?
A: “A Key Number is a unique 13-character alphanumeric code used to identify your TV commercial across all broadcasters. It includes a job identifier, brand name, campaign name, ad length, and version letter.
Example: J801NIKZ0030A
This number ensures your ad can be tracked, scheduled, and managed consistently across all networks.”

Q: What are AdStream and Peach, and what are they used for?
A: AdStream and Peach are Australia’s leading platforms for delivering and quality-checking TV commercials before broadcast. Once you have ClearAds approval and a Key Number, your editor uploads the video to one of these platforms, selects the target networks, and completes payment. The platform then verifies technical quality before distribution.

Q: What happens if my ad fails the AdStream or Peach quality check?
A: If your video fails the quality test, you’ll receive a report outlining the issues. You can either have your editor correct the file and re-upload it, or pay AdStream or Peach a small fee to fix it for you. Quality issues are common and usually straightforward to resolve with the right specifications.

Q: How much does it cost to get a TV ad approved and dispatched?
A: “Costs vary depending on the ad length and number of platforms you’re delivering to. ClearAds charges separate fees for Pre-Checks and Final Approvals (details available on the ClearAds Fees page).

AdStream or Peach also charge fees for upload, quality control, and distribution to networks. Production costs are separate and depend on your creative brief.”

Q: Can Story Machine help manage the approval and dispatch process?
A: Yes. At Story Machine, we handle every step, from production to compliance and dispatch. Our team manages ClearAds submissions, generates Key Numbers, and ensures your ad meets all broadcast specifications. We’ll also coordinate delivery through AdStream or Peach, making sure your TV commercial is approved, compliant, and ready for air without unnecessary delays.

Ready to get started?

Getting your TV commercial on air can be complicated, especially if you’re new to the process. But don’t worry—we’re here to help! Our expertise in video production and compliance ensures your ad will be ready for broadcast without any unnecessary delays. Ready to see your ideas on TV? Contact us today to bring your vision to life!

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