The Albanese Government is taking steps to modernise the National Classification Scheme for media content in Australia, launching a discussion paper to guide the next phase of reforms.

The classifications scheme has faced criticism for not keeping pace with how Australians access media content, particularly with the rise of online content and new content sharing platforms.

"Australians know and value our National Classification Scheme, and rely on it to help them make choices about the content most appropriate for themselves and their families," said Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP. "But the way Australians consume media has changed significantly since the Scheme was first introduced almost three decades ago. That's why the Albanese Government is committed to modernising the regime to ensure it is fit-for-purpose for the modern world."

This consultation process builds on reforms that began on 14 March 2023 under the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Amendment (Industry Self-Classification and Other Measures) Act 2023.

The government is seeking industry and public views on three key issues: the scope and purpose of the scheme, ensuring the classification guidelines align with evolving community standards, and establishing a single national regulator responsible for media classification.

Stage one reforms, now in force, allow for easier self-classification of content by the industry, expand exemptions for low-risk cultural content by libraries and museums, and enable content classified for broadcast to be shown in other formats using the same classification.

The government has also worked with State and Territory Governments to introduce mandatory minimum classifications for computer games containing gambling-like content, which will come into force in September this year.

"I encourage all interested parties to share their views to help us shape the next stage of reforms, and deliver an improved classification scheme that works for Australians," said Rowland.

Submissions on the stage two reforms to modernise the National Classification Scheme close at 5pm AEST on 16 May 2024.