AIMIA SUBMISSION ON R18+ CLASSIFICATION FOR COMPUTER GAMES

24 February 2010

Submission: Should the Australian National Classification Scheme include an R 18+ classification category for computer games?

An R18+ Classification for Games

While traditional media continues to be available and regulated according to its specific formats, new media poses regulatory challenges. Much of the content traditionally found and regulated in its distinctive formats is now also found in new media, and particularly on the Internet – accessed via PCs and mobile devices. This convergence of content, coupled with the divergence of content regulation, is creating very real challenges faced in attempts to regulate new media in line with traditional media. Perhaps one of the greatest inconsistencies in the content regulation mix is the lack of an R18+ classification for computer games.

Much of the content developed and distributed by AIMIA members is easily matched to traditional media forms, and subsequently readily matched to the appropriate content classification regime. However, an issue that is creating challenges for our members is the increasing irrelevance of traditional media type definitions to convergent content.

Whether one applies the requirements of the National Classification Scheme (the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995 and associated enforcement legislation) or the Online Content Scheme (through the Broadcasting Services Act 1992), developers, distributors and consumers all stumble if they have a piece of new media that must be wedged under the definition of “film” “computer game” or “publication”.

Generally this issue is not problematic, except where the content is assessed1 as likely to be suitable only for an adult audience. The “type” of content is then critical, as adult content “computer games” are not permitted in Australia. It is becoming increasingly difficult to differentiate between various types of media, as the distinctions between them continue to blur as a result of technological advances and what is termed „convergence?. Convergence suggests that the notion that classification can be tied to methods of delivery or technical characteristics is no longer relevant.

There are compelling reasons to harmonise the guidelines and the classification system for film and video and computer games, given the numerous examples of content which fit both definitions.

Click here for the full AIMIA Submission on R18+ Classification for Computer Games