Welcome to the Classification Website
From 1 July 2009, State and Territory classification enforcement legislation permits most unclassified films and computer games to be advertised, subject to certain conditions. It is still illegal to advertise unclassified films likely to be classified X 18+ and films and games likely to be classified RC.
Western Australia is the only State which has not yet passed amendments to permit advertising. It will continue to be illegal to advertise unclassified films or computer games (other than films granted an exemption before 1 July 2009) until WA legislation is amended, which is expected to happen later this year.
The new advertising scheme replaces the previous arrangements, where only cinema release films could be granted exemptions to be advertised before classification. The new scheme provides a consistent approach for unclassified films and computer games and improves the quality of information provided to consumers.
The Classification (Advertising of Unclassified Films and Computer Games Scheme) Determination 2009 sets out conditions on advertising unclassified films and computer games, including the display of a message ‘Check the Classification’ on most advertising. It also permits trained and authorised industry assessors to assess the likely classification of films and computer games and prevents them being advertised with films or games classified at a lower level than their likely classification.
There are also consequential amendments to the Classification (Markings for Films and Computer Games) Determination 2007 and transitional amendments to the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Regulations 2005.
This site contains information about the operations of the National Classification Scheme in Australia.
The site includes information about the Classification Board, Classification Review Board and the Attorney-General’s Department, which provides administrative services to the Board and Review Board and supports the Censorship Ministers in their administration of the National Classification Scheme.
Information about how to apply
If you are looking for information about how to apply for classification, fees, how to comply with classification legislation or other information about the application process, select the Industry option from the menu and then choose the area you need.
Decisions
You can find information about classification decisions made by the Classification Board and Classification Review Board by searching the online database.
Fee Review
The Department has started a review of classification fees for 2009. You can find out more or comment on the process by going to the Review of Fee Structure and Charges page.
National Classification Scheme
Detailed information regarding the National Classification Scheme can be accessed by visiting the Classification Policy page on the Attorney-General's Department website. Follow the links to find reference information including research pages, policy information, relevant legislation, consumer information and consumer fact sheets.