Australia does not have an 18+ rating for computer games. There is an 18 rating for videos and movies but not for computer games (including consoles).
The highest rating is MA15+. If a game is considered unsuitable for 15 year olds then the game is either banned from sale, or requires modification by the games developer until it is considered suitable for the 15 rating.
Any gamers in australia should already be aware of the increasing inconsistency in the ratings board and the urgent need for an 18+ rating. The time is NOW.
The Commonwealth Government has released a
discussion paper which briefly summarises the key arguments for and against an R 18+ classification for computer games.
THE QUESTIONShould the Australian National Classification Scheme include an R18+ classification category for computer games?
( ) Yes ( ) No
The government is seeking
public submissions on whether the Australian National Classification Scheme should include an R 18+ classification category for computer games. Submissions can be made by downloading and completing the multiple choice questions in the
submission template and returning via email.
Submissions are invited by close of business 28 February 2010. Submissions received after the due date may not be considered.
If you want to include feedback comments with your submission, keep the comments short and supportive. Childish comments such as "give us an 18 rating you fags" are unlikely to help support the argument that most gamers are responsible adults!
Rather than re-state the known arguments why there should be an R18+ rating, I think it would be better to write comments about the negative counter-arguments e.g. there would be a risk of exposure to children of R18+ games, and the impact of games on children. Direct your comments about these counter-arguments because they are the greatest hurdle to overcome.
