The first phase of the Albanese Government's reforms to modernise Australia's National Classification Scheme is now in effect, providing a new pathway for industry to use classifiers trained and accredited by the Government to classify films and computer games.

The Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Amendment (Industry Self-Classification and Other Measures) Act 2023 aims to reduce costs and double-handling by allowing content classified for broadcast to be shown in other formats using the same classification, with expansion to exemptions for low-risk cultural content.

The Classification Board will continue to oversee industry self-classification decisions and has the power to replace an industry self-classification decision if necessary.

"Australia's classification regime has long required modernisation, and that's what the Albanese Government's reform agenda is delivering," said Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland MP. "The changes now in effect will help industry and the National Classification Scheme manage the increasing volume of film and computer game content needing classification, so Australians continue to have access to trusted information to inform their viewing choices."

The reforms are intended to modernise the classification scheme so it remains a reliable source of information to guide Australians' media choices, especially regarding content shown to children.

Public consultation for the second stage of classification reforms will commence shortly. "The Government is working with industry and other stakeholders on further reforms to modernise the scheme, ensuring it keeps evolving to meet new needs," said Minister Rowland.