IGEA welcomes steps to modernise Australia’s Classification Scheme

The Hon Minster Michelle Rowland MP, the Australian Minister for Communications, today announced a major development for classification reform in Australia, outlining the steps to modernise the National Classification Scheme.  The Minister today also introduced a bill into the House of Representatives that will, among other reforms, enable the Classification Board to accredit industry classifiers to make classification decisions, including for video games. IGEA is closely reviewing the bill.

IGEA, on behalf of the Australian video games industry, welcomes Minister Rowland’s commitment to modernise the classification system and appreciates the move towards empowering industry accredited classifiers, subject to appropriate safeguards. We are also pleased that the Minister has flagged that there will be a second stage of reform to commence later in the year to help establish fit for purpose regulatory arrangements to ensure classification criteria matches evolving community standards and expectations.