Australian Government. Welcome to the Classifications Website
Australian Government
Welcome to the Classification Website
Classification SymbolsCheck the ClassificationG ClassificationPG ClassificationM ClassificationMA ClassificationR ClassificationX Classification

Frequently asked questions

What is the Classification Board? Who makes up the Classification Board?

Please view the Classification Board page for more information.

What is the Classification Review Board and how is it different?

Please view the Classification Review Board page for more information.

What happened to the Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC)?

Classification of films, computer games and some publications was previously performed by the Office of Film and Literature Classification (also known as the OFLC). In 2006 the OFLC was closed and classification became the responsibility of the Attorney-General's Department. This work is undertaken by two branches: the Classification Operations Branch provides administrative services to the Classification Board and Classification Review Board and supports the Censorship Ministers in their administration of the National Classification Scheme, provides classification training and runs the Classification Liaison Scheme. The Classification Policy Branch manage the policy and legal matters relating to classification.

On what basis are the Classifications Board's decisions made? I'm an adult, I should be able to watch, play and read what I want

The Classification Board are required to make decisions using legislative tools such as the Classification Act and Classification Guidelines.

In making a decision the Classification Board must take into account the classification criteria below:

The Act

Under the Act, each of the following matters must be taken into account in classifying films and computer games:

  1. the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults;
  2. the literary, artistic or educational merit (if any) of the publication, film or computer game;
  3. the general character of the publication, film or computer game, including whether it is of a medical, legal or scientific character;
  4. the persons or class of persons to or amongst whom it is published or is intended or likely to be published.

The Code

Under the Code, classification decisions are to give effect, as far as possible, to the following principles:

  1. adults should be able to read, hear and see what they want
  2. minors should be protected from material likely to harm or disturb them;
  3. everyone should be protected from exposure to unsolicited material that they find offensive;
  4. the need to take account of community concerns about:
    1. depictions that condone or incite violence, particularly sexual violence; and
    2. the portrayal of persons in a demeaning manner.

The needs of the Australian public are varied and the guidelines seek to strike a balance between permitting adults to make choices about their viewing, gaming and reading habits, while at the same time respecting that others need not see material they find confronting and protecting children from inappropriate content.

Why doesn't the Classification Board classify every book?

 The Classification Act states that the Classification Board should classify only ‘submittable publications’. The definition of a submittable publication does not cover all publications, rather it refers to publications that contain depictions or descriptions that are likely to cause the publication to be classified RC; or are likely to cause offence to a reasonable adult to the extent that the publication should not be sold or displayed as an unrestricted publication; or are unsuitable for a minor to see or read.

Only a small section of publications fit the definition of a submittable publication, so it is unlikely to find classifications on items typically sold in bookstores or available in library catalogues.

Does the Board classify TV programs or films for TV?

No, the Board does not classify TV or films broadcast on TV. You can find more information about who classifies television on the classifying television and music page.

How can I make a complaint about a classification decision?

You can make a complaint about a classification decision by writing to us by post, fax or email.

Contact details:
By Post: Locked Bag 3 Haymarket, New South Wales, 1240
By Fax: (02) 9289 7101
By Email: enquiries@classification.gov.au

I want to complain about a trailer I saw at the cinema?

Please contact the cinema where you saw the trailer first to address your concerns. If you are not happy with their response, please contact us in writing:

Contact details:
By Post: Locked Bag 3 Haymarket, New South Wales, 1240
By Fax: (02) 9289 7101
By Email: enquiries@classification.gov.au

Where can I find the markings?

You can find all the markings in .jpeg and .eps format in the marking downloads section.

Will the Board provide the classification stickers?

No, you need to download the markings from the website and have the stickers printed through a third party.

I am a games developer from overseas, how do I get my game classified?

If you have not sent in a computer game to be classified by the Board before, you need to set up a new account to process the payments. Once this has been set up, follow the instructions on the how to apply – computer games section. Please note that you will not be able to apply as an assessed level 1 or 2 game unless you have completed the training.

How much will it cost to get my product classified?

Fees for classification are listed in the fees for classification page, in categories.

Where can I find an application form?

Application forms are available on the application forms page. Please follow the links to the section you need.

How can I get a job as a Board Member?

Board vacancies are advertised on the Attorney-General’s Department website. More information can be found on the Attorney-General's Department employment page.

Related Information

Top of page