Reforms to modernise Australia’s Classification Scheme in effect

The first phase of the Albanese Government’s new reforms to modernise the National Classification Scheme have now come into effect, streamlining classification processes by making it easier for industry to use classifiers trained and accredited by Government.
 
The Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Amendment (Industry Self-Classification and Other Measures) Act 2023 provides this new pathway to classify films and computer games – adding to the existing options to either apply to the Classification Board or use an approved classification tool.
 
The Classification Board will continue to play an important role in oversight of industry self-classification decisions, with the ability to replace an industry self-classification decision if needed.
 
The reforms will also reduce costs and double-handling for industry by enabling content classified for broadcast to be shown in other formats (for example on streaming services) using the same classification – meaning it only needs to be classified once.
 
Exemptions from classification for low-risk cultural content have been expanded – covering non-English films that would be classified G or PG distributed through libraries, and for classifiable content displayed as part of routine exhibits by museums and galleries.
 
The reforms deliver on the Government’s commitment to modernise the classification scheme so it remains a reliable source of information to guide Australians’ media choices, particularly when it comes to content shown to children.
 
Public consultation to inform the development of the second stage of classification reforms will commence shortly.
 
It is intended these further reforms will clarify the scheme’s purpose and scope, establish fit-for-purpose regulatory and governance arrangements, and improve the responsiveness of the scheme to evolving community standards and expectations.
 
For more information on the scheme visit www.classification.gov.au.
 
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
 
“Australia’s classification regime has long required modernisation, and that’s what the Albanese Government’s reform agenda is delivering.
 
“The changes now in effect will help industry and the National Classification Scheme manage the increasing volume of film and computer game content needing classification, so Australians continue to have access to trusted information to inform their viewing choices.
 
“The Government is working with industry and other stakeholders on further reforms to modernise the scheme, ensuring it keeps evolving to meet new needs.”