Fees for classification
Establishing fees for classification services
If you are applying for classification, you must pay the amount prescribed in the Classification (Films, Publications and Computer Games) Act 1995 when you make your application.
New fees apply from 5 September 2011, following a review by the Attorney-General's Department.
The previous fees came into operation on 1 December 2005, with the exception of the fees under the Authorised Television Series Assessor Scheme (ATSA) and the Additional Content Assessor Scheme (ACA).
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- cancellation of applications, dependent upon the stage of the classification process at which the application is withdrawn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.
The full range of classification fees were reviewed and new fees implemented on 5 September 2011. More information about the fee review is available on the Review of fee structure and charges page.
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 following telephone numbers.
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