Generally, films and computer games, including DVDs, Blu-rays, on-demand entertainment and online games, must be classified before they can be made available to the public.
General rules
Before films and computer games are made available to the public, they must:
- be classified
- have the age restrictions applied
- be marked with the correct classification marking and consumer advice
- display a notice listing the classification categories in a prominent place where the film or computer game is being made available
- not have been Refused Classification (RC). It’s prohibited to sell and rent films and computer games that are RC.
Requirements are similar in each of the states and territories, but there are some important differences, including:
- X 18+ films can only be made available to the public in the ACT and certain parts of the NT
- In South Australia and Western Australia, restrictions apply on the display of R 18+ content
Check the classification
Search the Classification Database to check the classification.
If the title is not listed in the Classification Database you can apply for a classification decision. First contact the distributor for information about the classification of the content.
Age restrictions
G, PG and M
Anyone can access G, PG and M content.
Parental guidance is recommended for PG content, and M content is not recommended for people under the age of 15.
MA 15+ restricted
MA 15+ content is legally restricted. MA 15+ content is not suitable for people under the age of 15.
Access to MA 15+ content can only be provided to people under 15 if they are with a parent or guardian.
The guardian must be an adult that has parental control over the person under age 15. This could include a grandparent, aunt or uncle, but not an older sibling or friend.
In Queensland, the person under 15 may be with any adult.
R 18+ restricted
R 18+ is legally restricted. R 18+ content is not suitable for people under the age of 18.
It is illegal to provide access to R 18+ content to people under age 18.
Proof of age
Check a person’s age before providing access to MA 15+ or R 18+ content. You can ask for proof of age of the person claiming to be 15 or 18, or of the parent or guardian.
You must not provide access to MA 15+ content to anyone who looks under 15 and cannot provide proof of age, or who is not accompanied by a parent or guardian.
You must not provide access to R 18+ content to anyone who looks under 18 and cannot provide proof of age.
Showing films and computer games in public
Films and computer games must be classified before they can be screened in a public place.
There are no restrictions on showing G, PG and M classified films and games in public.
Be careful when screening PG and M content in-store as parental guidance is recommended for PG content, and M content is not recommended for people under the age of 15.
MA 15+ and R 18+ are legally restricted. If you show MA 15+ content in a public place, you must make sure people under the age of 15 cannot see it unless they are with a consenting parent or adult guardian.
You cannot show an R 18+ film or game in a public place where people under 18 years can see it.
Check the legislation
For detailed information about the rules on selling films and games, check the legislation for your state or territory.