Movie Classifications

The Classifications Board is an independent statutory body that makes classification decisions about movie classifications, computer games and publications in Australia. The Australian Government and the States and Territories have agreed to guidelines which the board uses to hand down its decisions.

There is a right of appeal through the Classification Review Board who like the Classification board, is an independent statuary body. The Classification Review Board is empowered to overturn original decision and make new classifications.

The Classification Board rules on a wide range of entertainment media. Movies made for cinema or DVD and tape sales have to be classified before they are available for the public.

PC-based computer games also have to classified before they can be sold or hired in Australia. These include console games such as PS2 & PS3, X-Box 360 and Hand-held games like your playstation.

The Classification Board does not classify free to air television. Free to air television is classified by in house classifiers who use the Broadcasting Services Act of 1992 which sets out a self-regulatory regime for all broadcasters.

The broadcasters are obliged to firstly ensure and then to take any action if necessary should they receive any complaints and community concerns. The Australian Communications and Media Authority monitor any such situations and or complaints regarding community concerns in relation to the codes of practice.

In Australia there has been a system of warning labels used for audio-only recorded music products since 1996. This system is called the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) and the Australian Music Retailers Association (AMRA) manage the Recorded Music Labelling Code of Practice, they are responsible for classifying music CDs without visual components.

The Mobile Phone Industry is encouraged to be self-regulatory with the Australian Communications and Media Authority overseeing any complaints.

The classification of Advertisements is a national voluntary system of advertising self-regulation. The Advertising Standards Bureau administers the concept where advertisers are expected to adhere to the Advertiser Code of Ethics. The Australian Association of National Advertisers following principles laid down by the Australian Parliament as being reflective of community values.

X 18+ - Restricted to 18 and over - this classification applies to films that contain only sexually explicit content.