NEW CLASSIFICATION MARKINGS FOR FILMS AND COMPUTER GAMES
Attorney-General Philip Ruddock MP and Member for Berowra said today that new classification markings for films and computer games will make it easier for Australians to make informed entertainment choices has announced.
Unveiling the new markings for the first time at a launch in Sydney, Mr Ruddock said the Classification (Films and Computer Games) Determination 2005 created uniform, new look classifications that would appear on film and computer game products, packaging and advertising.
"Most parents are too busy to be searching advertising and packaging to find classification information, so the introduction of colours for each classification, clear consumer advice in its own white space and consistent positioning will now enable them to find this information at a glance," Mr Ruddock said.
"Our unified system of classifications for films and computer games is a world first that makes it easier to understand the content of films and computer games."
Research by the Office of Films and Literature Classification (OFLC) had shown less than half the population was aware of the old computer games classification scheme, while the vast majority was aware of the film classification system. Consumers were also very confused about the meaning of the MA classification.
"The three restricted classifications - MA15+, R18+ and X18+ - are now always clearly labelled with the word 'Restricted' underneath the coloured symbol, so parents will always be aware that restrictions apply to young people under the age featured on the classification," Mr Ruddock said.
The new Determination changes the way the classifications appear, but it does not change their meaning. Consistent with the previous decision by Censorship Ministers, the Determination does not provide an R18+ classification for computer games.