About CAD (Classification) Numbers

Issuing of CAD Numbers

CAD will issue a CAD Number after a commercial has been classified. A broadcaster may make acceptance of a commercial for broadcast conditional on the commercial having a current CAD Number.

CAD cannot issue a CAD Number or provide final classification advice until a commercial is submitted in final form along with all the relevant documentation.

Subsequent alteration to a commercial after it has been classified will render the CAD Number invalid, except for the addition of closed captions, provided that the closed captions do not obscure any visual information such as supers, graphics, disclaimers, pricing and other details.

How do I know if my commercial has been classified?
The CAD Search function allows you to see if your commercial has been received and if a CAD Number has been issued. The database is updated every hour, on the half hour. Upon classification, CAD will send confirmation.

How do I search for a CAD Number?
Simply enter your exact key number WITHOUT any spaces, forward-slash or other characters (eg without /, &, $, #, @ etc) and click on the Search button. If successful, the search will display your key number, the CAD Number and the date the number was assigned.

What if the search returns CAD Number: Pending?
If the search returns the message “CAD Number: Pending” then your commercial has been logged by CAD but a CAD Number has not yet been issued. Please try again later or contact CAD on (02) 8968 7200 or email cad@freetv.com.au

What if the search returns No Records Found?
If the search returns “No Records Found” you may have entered the key number incorrectly or your commercial has not been logged by CAD. Try entering the key number again, if unsuccessful contact CAD on (02) 8968 7200 or email cad@freetv.com.au

How will I know what Classification my commercial has received?
CAD will assign a Classification (a Placement Code) to your commercial which appears as the first character in the assigned CAD Number. Reference to Placement Codes (including specific Placement Codes for Betting/Gambling & Liquor and Cinema/DVD/Films/Videos and Games categories) are provided in the A-Z Television Production Checklist within this document.

Duration of CAD Numbers

CAD Numbers are valid for two years. The two-year period commences from the date the CAD Number is issued.

CAD Numbers issued for Government or Statutory Authorities/Agencies expire three months after initial classification. The CAD Number can be renewed for a further three-month period, where no change has been made to the commercial. You need to email the key number of the commercial you wish to re-air to cad@freetv.com.au with “Renewal of Government Classification” in the subject header.

Note: changes in legal and regulatory requirements can occur at any time in which case classification may be withdrawn within the relevant two-year period. It is the responsibility of the advertiser to monitor and inform CAD of any changes in fact or law that may affect the classification.

Renewal of CAD Numbers

When a CAD Number has expired, commercials should be resubmitted to CAD for classification in the usual way.