Public exhibition films
On this page, you can find information about how to apply for classification of public exhibition films.
- Do I need to get my film classified?
- What do I have to do?
- Bookings for screenings
- Essential requirements of an application
- 3D films
- What if I don't agree with the Classification Board's decision?
- Where can I get more information?
- Where do I send my application?
Do I need to get my film classified?
Most films, whether local or imported, have to be classified before they can be publicly exhibited. There are some exceptions:
- Identical versions of a previously classified film do not require classification. You may exhibit an identical version of a previously classified film using its prior classification and consumer advice.
- To determine if a version of a film has a previous classification, please check the classification database. This database displays the production details (title, producer, director and production company), duration, classification and consumer advice of a film that have been previously classified. Please contact the Classification Branch if you have any problems using the database.
- If the details of a previously classified film vary from the version you want to exhibit, you must submit the film for classification. A variation may include either the addition or deletion of any content.
- Certain films may be exempt from classification if their content can be accommodated under specific descriptions in the Classification Act. The conditions for exempt films are relatively specific and relate to both subject matter and classifiable elements within the film. Refer to the Is it exempt from classification page for more information.
What do I have to do?
If you are a new applicant you will first need to set up an account in our records database by completing and submitting a New Account Setup Request Form to the Business Support Unit (contact details are on the form). It is preferable for you to do this before you submit any applications or payments for classification. If you are an existing client and your business name, ABN or contact details have changed please use the new account or account update forms in the Application forms section of our website.
It is essential that you submit the correct documentation, materials and classification fee with any application for classification. If you do not supply all the correct information your application may be delayed.
The Classification Branch must receive the correct classification fee, a copy of the film and a correctly made application by midday the day before the arranged classification screening date. Failure to comply may result in a cancellation of your screening and delays with your application.
Bookings for screenings
The usual practice is to arrange a specific screening time to have your film classified for public exhibition. Bookings can be made by calling the Classification Administration Officer (Public Exhibition Film) on telephone (02) 9289 7119. Bookings should be made as soon as you know the availability of the print but no later than one week ahead of your preferred screening dates.
The completed application form, payment and film synopsis should be delivered to the Classification Branch at least 48 hours before the screening time. The film print should be delivered at least 24 hours before the screening time. Screenings can be cancelled without notice if these requirements are not met. You may choose to apply at the same time for a sale or hire classification.
Essential requirements of an application
You need to complete the application form in writing. The form must be signed by, or on behalf of, the applicant. This form is provided for in the Classification Act and approved by the Director. You must fill in the form correctly and sign it or there will be delays in processing. The form can be found on the Application forms – Films for public exhibition page.
You will need to check the Classification database to see if the film has already been classified or if the Classification Board has assessed the film for a likely classification.
You will also need to make sure that a screening date has been booked for the film. These bookings need to be made with the Classification Applications Officer (Cinema) on telephone (02) 9289 7119 as soon as possible, to minimise any delays in getting a suitable booking date as booking can be limited at certain times of the year.
- Please check your print before the screening date. If you are submitting a 35mm print, it must be delivered, spooled and wound 'head out'. The Classification Board may decline to screen un-spooled or 'tail out' prints or any content obscured by time coding or any other image not intended for the films release. Black and white versions of colour films are not acceptable. You may submit a copy in a format not intended for exhibition (DVD for 35mm release). Applications may be delayed or rejected if the material supplied is not clearly ordered, labelled or if the material is contained on an excessive number of devices.
Please check the fees for classification – public exhibition films page to work out the fee you need to pay to have your film classified. Classification fees only apply to unclassified content. However, if you are submitting a previously classified version of the film with deleted content (such as an airline edit) the classification fee will apply to the full duration of the film.
In certain circumstances, the Director may waive all or part of the classification fees. Section 91 of the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995 outlines these circumstances. Please refer to the Classification (Fee Waivers) Principles 2008 for further information about eligibility and how to apply.
Further information about fee waivers can be found on the fee waivers page or by contacting the Exemptions Officer on telephone (02) 9289 7100.
3D Films
2D and 3D versions of the same film are treated as separate films under the Classification Act. Each version must be submitted for classification as a separate and distinct application.
If you intend to classify a 3D film, we request that applicants organise a venue for the Classification Board to view the film in 3D. Please contact us on the telephone numbers listed below if you need more information, or wish to make a booking for classification.
What if I disagree with the Classification Board's decision?
You can ask a Classification Applications Officer for a copy of the Classification Board's reasons for decision. You can also apply for a review to the Classification Review Board, an independent review body.
Refer to How to Apply for Review of Classification Board Decision for information on applying for a review, application forms and the review fee.
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.
For specific enquiries relating to:
An application for classification of a film for public exhibition
Senior Applications Officer
Telephone: (02) 9289 7100
Booking a classification screening
Classification Applications Officer (Cinema)
Telephone: (02) 9289 7119
A review of a classification decision
Secretary of the Classification Review Board
Telephone: (02) 9289 7100
Where do I send my application?
By post
The Director
Classification Board
Locked Bag 3
HAYMARKET NSW 1240
By courier
The Director
Classification Board
Level 5, 23 – 33 Mary St
SURRY HILLS NSW 2010