Australia’s National Classification Scheme Gets a Boost

5 September 2023 Last night, the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Amendment (Industry Self-Classification and Other Measures) Bill 2023 passed the Australian Senate.

IGEA welcomes the passing of the Bill, which represents the first stage towards reforming and modernising the National Classification Scheme.

The Bill will empower accredited industry classifiers to make classification decisions and expand classification options for the video games industry. IGEA welcomes the ability of video game publishers and developers to utilise the flexibility and accessibility of self-classification given the size of the sector and the popularity of games as an entertainment medium.

The Australian video games industry has a long and productive history of working closely with the Government on classification. Authorised assessors already make classification recommendations to the Classification Board, while the industry-developed International Age Rating Coalition (IARC) classification tool for digital and mobile games was the first classification tool approved by the Australian Government. The introduction of accredited industry classifiers is a natural next step.

“IGEA believes that modernising the National Classification Scheme is not only long overdue but is critical to ensuring the needs and expectations of the community are being met”, said Ron Curry, CEO of IGEA. “We are grateful for Minister Rowland’s recognition that the Scheme needs updating to keep pace with Australians’ access to digital media and provide consumers and carers with accurate content information. We commend the Minister and the Government’s swift and tangible actions in progressing the two-stage reforms to ensure the Scheme is fit for modern digital media, including video games.”

We look forward to engaging with the government about the next steps to modernise the National Classification Scheme. Our industry is committed and dedicated to the safety of its players, and a fit-for-purpose National Classification Scheme will undoubtedly assist in fulfilling this commitment.

ENDS

Media spokespeople available: Ron Curry, CEO of IGEA
Contact info@igea.net

About IGEA
IGEA (Interactive Games & Entertainment Association) is the peak industry association representing the voice of Australian and New Zealand companies in the computer and video games industry. IGEA supports the games industry’s business and public policy interests through advocacy, research and education programs. For more information, please visit www.igea.net