Application process

The application process for classification is very similar for films, computer games and publications.

To find fees, file and other material requirements, delivery specifications, application forms and other details, view the relevant guides:

• Classify a publication
• Classify a computer game
• Classify a film for cinema release
• Assessment of likely classification
• Classify a film for on-demand, DVD and Blu-ray including ACA and ATSA

Before you apply

Set up an account

You can submit classification applications through the Classification Portal. If you don’t have an account, please register online.

Update your account

Have your details changed since you last lodged an application? If so, please update your account via the Classification Portal.

Check the classification

First, check the Classification Database to see if the film, computer game or publication has been classified before.

Films and computer games only require classification once, as long as there are no major content changes. For more information, see Modifications.

About the portal

The Classification Portal allows you to upload your content and submit your application online. Through the portal you can track your application’s progress, view account balances and make credit card payments.

Festivals and events can also be registered through the portal.

Uploading digital content

We recommend you upload your film and computer game content on the portal using Box. There is further information on Box for you that is available under ‘Downloads’ section at the bottom of this page.

Box provides a secure and easy option for submitting content. There is an individual maximum file size of 32GB.

You can still provide physical copies of media if necessary–you will find the addresses to post or courier your media in the portal.

Format specifications

Credits

Include full and final film credits.

Watermarks and timecodes

Watermarks and timecodes are not required. If included, they must:

• be small
• in one corner of the screen
• not obscure the content of the film

Watermarks and timecodes may be displayed at the:

Top left hand corner of the screen

Top right hand corner of the screen

Region codes

Region codes for DVD and Blu-Ray disc must be for Australia:

• DVD - Region 4
• Blu-ray - Region B

Windows PC

USB keys used to deliver films must be formatted for Windows PC.

Fees

We process applications after the fees are paid.

Fees are different for every application and are shown in each application guide.

In limited circumstances, you can make a request to the Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts for a fee waiver. 

Priority processing

For some applications you can pay an additional fee of $420 to speed up the process. This takes a maximum of:        

• two working days for administration
• five working days for processing

How to pay

You can pay online in the Classification Portal or by Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). You will receive EFT information when you set up an account with us.

Classification decision

Notification

We will notify you of our decision by email with a copy of the classification certificate.

Decisions are published on the National Classification Database the day after application processing is complete.

If you have told us the national release date for your film, it will also be listed in Upcoming releases.

Timing for decisions:

• up to 25 working days for a standard application
• up to 7 working days for a priority application

Appeal the decision

If you disagree with the classification decision, you can apply for a review by the Classification Review Board. Contact us to request a copy of the Classification Board's reasons for the decision.

Withhold a decision

In limited circumstances, the Director of the Classification Board may agree to withhold a classification decision from being published on the National Classification Database for a short time.

If you need to withhold a decision for legitimate commercial reasons, contact us. Please provide your request on company letterhead. Include the reasons for withholding the decision, and the date you would like the decision to be published.

You will receive a confirmation email stating that your request has been approved.