This section is for retailers who sell submittable publications. A submittable publication is one that is likely to be restricted to adults because it:
- contains depictions or descriptions likely to cause offence to a reasonable adult
- is unsuitable for a minor to see or read
General rules
Before submittable publications are made available to the public:
- they must be classified
- they must be marked with the correct classification marking and consumer advice
- they must be in the same form and title to the form and title it was classified under
- age restrictions must be applied
- rules about packaging and display must be applied
Unrestricted
- These publications are not legally restricted. They are not recommended for people under 15 years.
- Unrestricted publications do not generally need to be inside a sealed bag when sold.
Category 1 restricted
- Restricted to people 18 years and over.
- Must be sold and delivered in packaging with the marking displayed prominently.
- If the bag is opaque, the marking must be on both the packaging and the publication.
Category 2 restricted
- Restricted to people 18 years and over. Can only be sold in certain places.
- Must be sold and delivered in opaque packaging, with the classification marking on both the publication and the packaging.
Refused Classification (RC)
- Cannot be sold or hired in Australia.
Check the classification
If you are unsure whether the publication you are selling has been classified or displays the correct classification marking and consumer advice, look it up in the Classification Database.
If there are no results for the publication, then:
- contact the distributor for classification information
- or submit an application for classification via the portal
Check the legislation
Legal restrictions and requirements for the sale of submittable publications differ in each state and territory. Some examples of differences are listed below.
Category 1 restricted
- In QLD and certain areas of the NT, it is illegal to sell Category 1 restricted publications.
- In all other states and territories, Category 1 restricted publications can only be sold to people 18 years and over.
- Category 1 restricted publications can only be displayed for sale in general outlets if they are in sealed wrapping.
- In SA, VIC, certain areas of the NT and WA, the wrapping must be opaque.
Category 2 restricted
- In QLD and certain areas of the NT, it is illegal to sell Category 2 restricted publications.
- In the ACT, NSW, certain areas of the NT, SA and VIC, Category 2 restricted publications can only be displayed and sold in a restricted publications area.
- In TAS and WA, Category 2 restricted publications can be sold in premises that are not restricted areas, provided certain conditions are met.
The information on this page is provided as a general guide only. Check the legislation in your state or territory for details.