The Department of Communications and the Arts has released a discussion paper on the review of Australia’s classification regulation framework to meet changing technologies and community needs.
Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, Paul Fletcher said the existing classification scheme – established in 1995 – needed to be modernised to reflect the contemporary media environment.
“Australians are typically early technology adopters and the range of platforms and ways we consume and enjoy media and entertainment has changed dramatically over the last few decades,” Mr Fletcher said.
“I encourage all interested parties to make a submission to help us develop a contemporary framework that meets the needs of industry and provides appropriate consumer information and protections.”
He said the review would seek to update the criteria used to classify films, TV and computer games; redesign classification laws to fit the modern content market; and develop a framework that provides quality classification information across all media formats.
Mr Fletcher said the review formed part of a response to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Digital Platforms Inquiry to develop a platform-neutral media regulatory framework, including harmonising classification across delivery formats.
The consultation period will continue until Wednesday, 19 February.
The Department’s 20-page discussion paper can be accessed at this PS News link.
