Review of Australian classification regulation

The National Classification Scheme was enacted in 1995 in the age of dial-up internet. Since then, the internet and streaming services have changed the way we access and consume content.

The current system was not designed to manage changing technologies or the large volumes of content now available via streaming services, online game storefronts and other content platforms.

On 16 December 2019, the Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts released terms of reference for a review of Australia's classification regulation.

This review seeks to develop a classification framework that meets community needs and reflects today's digital environment.

Key issues to be considered include:

• How best to harmonise the regulatory framework for classification across broadcast content, online content and physical product such as DVDs and boxed games.
• Whether the criteria for classifying films and computer games are still appropriate and useful and continue to reflect community standards and concerns.
• The type of content that should be required to be classified.
• Who should be responsible for classifying content and what level of government oversight is appropriate.

Supporting information

• Terms of reference—review of Australian classification regulation
• National Classification Code
• Classification Guidelines for Films
• Classification Guidelines for Computer Games