Campaign for the Introduction of an R (Restricted 18+) Category for Computer Games in Australia
SIGN THE PETITION HERE
Background Information:
Within Australia, all computer games are subject to classification by the Office of Film and Literature Classification. Classification guidelines are specified by the Commonwealth, State and Territory Classification Ministers in order to assist members of the Classification Board in making classification decisions that are "consistent and reflective as far as possible of the views of the Australian community."
When the current computer game classification guidelines were introduced in 1994, concerns about the interactive nature of computer games, and the possible adverse effects of violent computer games on children, were uppermost in the minds of the Ministers. Thus, because the Ministers subscribed to the erroneous and continually discredited notions that only children play computer games, and that violent games provoke violent behaviour, an R (Restricted) category for computer games was deliberately omitted from the guidelines.
As a result of this omission, games are Refused Classification if they contain material that precludes them from classification under the G, G8+, M, or MA categories. Computer games which receive a Refused Classification (RC) rating cannot legally be advertised, imported, demonstrated, exhibited or made available for sale or rental within Australia. Although it could be argued that the current guidelines adhere to the second principle set out in the National Classification Code (a schedule to the Classification Act that members of the Classification Board are required to apply to classification decisions), which states that "minors should be protected from material likely to harm or disturb them", the guidelines directly conflict with the first principle of the Code, which states that "adults should be able to read, see and hear what they want."
The Current Situation:
An ongoing review of the classification guidelines for computer games and films seeks to ensure that the guidelines reflect current community standards. A discussion paper published by the Office of Film and Literature Classification (viewable
here using Adobe Acrobat Reader) lists potential modifications to the guidelines, and invites members of the community to comment on both the existing guidelines and the proposed modifications. Proposals advocating the classification of computer games in the same manner as films and videotapes, and the proposed introduction of a uniform system of classification for all entertainment media, are of particular interest to the computer gaming community. Adoption of these measures, and the subsequent amendment of the Classification Act, would facilitate the introduction of an R category for computer games.
Why the Introduction of an R Category is Necessary:
The introduction of an R category for computer games would be of great benefit to the Australian community. Primarily, it would allow Australians to enjoy games that would conceivably be Refused Classification under the current guidelines. The introduction of an R category would also relieve game developers, publishers and distributors of the burden of censoring games with mature content, something which they frequently do in order to avoid a Refused Classification rating for their games. Elimination of the need to censor games for the Australian market would also allow adults to enjoy games as their developers intended: without modifications, without being 'watered down.'
The introduction of an R category for computer games would also dispel the widespread misconception that only children play computer games, and send a very clear message to legislators that the Australian public consider the first principle of the Classification Code (which states that "adults should be able to read, see and hear what they want") to be a fundamental civil right.
This review of the classification guidelines is the first of its kind since their inception in 1994. Submissions to the review panel must be received by October 31, 2001. Therefore, it is crucial that any action taken is swift and decisive. Missing this opportunity could mean a wait of 5 - 10 years before the guidelines are reviewed again. Some computer gamers who are under 18 at this time may oppose the introduction of an R category out of fear that certain games that would be available to them under the current system could, if the R category were to be introduced, no longer be unavailable to them. However, the likelihood of this occurring is minimal, and the fact that many of these computer gamers will almost certainly reach 18 before the guidelines once again come under review bears careful consideration.
How You Can Contribute to this Campaign:
1) Sign the Petition.
2) Encourage fellow computer gamers, friends, associates and colleagues to sign the petition.
3) Send an intelligently worded letter stating your thoughts on the matter and outlining your support for these reforms to:
Guidelines Review 2001
Locked Bag 3
Haymarket
NSW, 1240
Or via Email
SIGN THE PETITION HERE
Special Thanks to the Following for their Invaluable Support:
Astrogamer
BigKid
BluesNews
FatBabies
PS2Australia
Protozone
My Darling Karen
Revolution CD (Games, Music & Movie Exchange)
- Shop 1/373-375, Pitt St, Sydney
jesder21, MidnightPanther21 and the other denizens
of IGN's PAL PlayStation2 Board
Brett Robinson
Campaign Coordinator
Email: [email protected]