CAD Database Search

The CAD Database Search function in the left navigation panel, allows you to see if your commercial has been logged by Commercials Advice and if a CAD Number has been issued.

CAD will issue a CAD Number after a commercial has been classified. A broadcaster may make acceptance of a commercial for broadcast 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 paperwork.

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 on the Free TV website 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. Refer to Placement Codes which contains specific information for Betting/Gambling & Liquor and Cinema/DVD/Films/Videos and Games categories.