How to Make a Complaint
Our process is free, confidential, and designed to be as straightforward as possible. We're here to help if you have a complaint about a newspaper, magazine, or online publication.
Always Free
There's no charge at any stage
Confidential
Your details are kept private
4–8 Weeks
Typical time to resolution
Online or Post
Submit online or by letter
The Process, Step by Step
From initial contact to final decision — here's exactly what happens at each stage.
1
Check if we can help
- 2 minutes
Before you begin, check three things:
- The article was published by a member publication of the Press Council
- It was published within the last 3 months
- You are personally affected by the article or the journalistic behaviour
2
Write to the editor first
- 15 minutes
Before you come to us, you must first contact the publication directly. Write to the editor and tell them:
- Which article you're complaining about
- Which principle(s) of the Code of Practice you believe were breached
- What you'd like them to do about it (e.g., correction, apology)
Tip: Keep a copy of your letter/email and any response — you'll need these when you submit your complaint.
3
Submit your complaint online
- 15–20 minutes
If the editor's response doesn't resolve your concern — or if you don't receive a response within a reasonable time — fill in our online complaint form. You'll need:
- A copy of the article (screenshot, PDF, or link)
- Your correspondence with the editor
- Details of which Code Principles you believe were breached
- A brief explanation of how you are personally affected
4
We review and seek a resolution
- 4–8 weeks
Once we receive your complaint, here's what happens:
- We acknowledge receipt and assign a reference number
- We contact the publication and share your complaint
- We try to resolve the matter through conciliation — encouraging both parties to reach an agreement
- If conciliation is not possible, the Press Ombudsman will examine the complaint formally
Tip: You'll be kept informed at each stage. You can contact us at any time for an update.
5
Decision is published
If the complaint goes to a formal decision:
- The Press Ombudsman makes a ruling based on the Code of Practice
- The decision is published on our website
- If the complaint is upheld, the publication must publish the decision
- Either party may appeal the decision to the Press Council within 14 days
Ready to make a complaint?
Our online form takes about 15 minutes. Your progress is saved automatically — you can return later if needed.