55,000+ Submissions recevied on R18+ Classification

Following is a press release from the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, Minsiter for Home Affairs dicsussing the R18+ Classification submission process (although somewhat vaguely):

THE HON BRENDAN O’CONNOR MP

 MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS 

55,000-PLUS SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED ON

R 18+ CLASSIFICATION FOR COMPUTER GAMES

(4 May 2010) Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the more than 55,000 submissions received in response to the R18+ Classification for Computer Games Discussion Paper.

“The response on whether the National Classification Scheme should include an R 18+ classification for computer games indicates a high level of interest in this issue in the Australian community,” Mr O’Connor said.

“It is good to see that this public consultation has generated so much interest,” Mr O’Connor said

“The submissions received in this consultation process will assist the Commonwealth and other censorship ministers’ consideration about whether an adult classification for computer games should be introduced.

“It is important to note that changes to the National Classification Code require unanimous agreement between the Commonwealth, States and Territories.”

The Attorney-General’s Department will now prepare a report on the consultation for the Standing Committee of Attorneys General.

Information about those submissions that did not request confidentiality will be made public in due course. 

The public consultation which began on 14 December 2009 has now closed.

Contact: Senior Policy and Media Adviser, Brian Humphreys 0438 595 567