Fees for Classification
Establishing fees for Classification Services
Under the Classification (Films, Publications and Computer Games) Act 1995, applications for classification must be accompanied by the prescribed fee.
With the exception of the fees for Authorised Television Series Assessor Scheme (ATSA), the current fees came into operation on 1 December 2005.
The Attorney-General's Department is currently reviewing the fees charged for the Classification services. Indicative fees are expected in early 2009.
Services that Attract Fees
The following classification services are provided on a fee for service basis:
- Classification of Films, Publications and Computer Games
- Title Changes for Film, Publications and Computer Games
- Cancellation of applications, dependant upon the stage of the classification process at which the application is withdrawn
- Cancellation of applications to the Review Board
- Serial Classification of Publications
- Some information and data gathering requests
- Revised Publications, and
- Formally Exempt Films and Games.
A Priority Processing Fee (PPF) for "Film – Other" and Computer Games providing fast turnaround of classification within a 5 day period is also available. The high demand for PPF indicates the level of support from industry to retain this service.
Fee Structure for Classification Services
The fees for classification are available below:
- Films for Public Exhibition
- Film - DVD, including ACA and ATSA schemes
- Computer Games
- Publications and Serial Declarations
- Advertising
- Other services
Cost Recovery Impact Statements
The Australian Government's cost recovery policy requires that a Cost Recovery Impact Statement (CRIS) should be prepared for any fees that are changed by an agency where the total annual receipts from all fees exceed $5 million. The aim of the CRIS is to provide clients with information on how the fees are calculated and to improve the transparency of the fee process. It is also a government requirement that CRISs are published on the agency's website.
- Access the CRIS for the Authorised Televisions Series Assessor Scheme [PDF 548KB]
The full range of classification fees are currently under review and indicative fees are expected early 2009. More information about the fee review is available on the Review of Fee Structure and Charges page. An updated CRIS for all classification fees will be published in the course of the review.
Where can I get more information?
If you require additional information you can submit an enquiry or contact an appropriate officer on one of the telephone numbers below.
An application for classification of a film, computer game or publication
Senior Classification Applications Officer
Telephone (02) 9289 7102
A review of a classification decision
Secretary of the Classification Review Board
Telephone (02) 9289 7100
Information about payments for classification services
Classification Finance Officer
Telephone (02) 9289 7100