Australian Classification Board: Difference between revisions

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The '''Office of Film and Literature Classification''' '''(OFLC)''' is a statutory classification body which provides day to day administrative support for the Classification Board which classified films, computer games and publications in Australia, and the Classification Review Board which reviews films, computer games and publications when a valid application has been made. While the New Zealand body also has the [[OFLC (NZ)|same name]], it is worth pointing out that both companies are completely separate entities and as such, ratings do differ between them.  
The '''Office of Film and Literature Classification''' '''(OFLC)''' is a statutory classification body which provides day to day administrative support for the Classification Board which rates films, computer games, and publications in [[Australia]], and the Classification Review Board which reviews films, computer games and publications when a valid application has been made. While the [[New Zealand]] body also has the [[OFLC (NZ)|same name]], it is worth pointing out that both organizations are completely separate entities and as such, ratings do differ between them.  


== Film and Video Game Ratings ==
== Film and Video Game Ratings ==

Revision as of 10:29, 24 July 2008

The Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC) is a statutory classification body which provides day to day administrative support for the Classification Board which rates films, computer games, and publications in Australia, and the Classification Review Board which reviews films, computer games and publications when a valid application has been made. While the New Zealand body also has the same name, it is worth pointing out that both organizations are completely separate entities and as such, ratings do differ between them.

Film and Video Game Ratings

G (Small) General

G (General) – These films and computer games are for general viewing. However, G does not conclusively mean a children’s film or game because many of these productions contain content that would be of no interest to children.

The content is very mild.



PG (Small) PG

PG (Parental Guidance) – These films and computer games contain material that a parent might need to explain to younger children.

The content is mild.



M (Small) M

M (Mature) – These films and computer games contain material that requires a mature perspective.

The content is moderate.


MA15+ (Small) MA15+

MA15+ (Mature Accompanied) – People under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian for the duration of the film in the cinema. Parental permission to see an MA15+ film is not sufficient. People under 15 are not permitted to hire or buy films or computer games classified MA15+.

The content is strong.

Previous Video Game Ratings

These ratings are still shown on some older video games that are still on sale in Australia

OFCL Rating: G (General) GGeneral : The G classification is for a general audience.
OFCL Rating: G8+ (General 8+) G8+General for children over 8 years of age: Material classified G8+ may contain material which some children find confusing or upsetting, and may require the guidance of parents or guardians. It is not recommended for viewing by persons under 8 without guidance from parents or guardians.
OFCL Rating: M15+ (Mature) M15+Mature: Material classified M15+ is not recommended for persons under 15 years of age. There are no legal restrictions on access.
OFCL Rating: M15+ (Mature Restricted) MA15+Mature Restricted: Material classified MA15+ is considered unsuitable for persons under 15 years of age. It is a legally restricted category. If your children are under 15 they cannot buy or hire an MA15+ computer game unless accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

Grand Theft Auto Game Ratings

The Australian OFLC has been quite harsh on the GTA series in comparison with other ratings boards. Grand Theft Auto 3 was originally restricted by the OFLC who gave it a rating of 'RC', but it later gained an MA 15+ rating meaning the game could be sold in the country. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas had it's MA 15+ rating revoked after the Hot Coffee incident, resulting in the game being banned. The 2nd edition re-release saw the game regain it's MA 15+ rating.

A rating of 'RC' denotes 'Refused Classification', where the game is effectively banned from being sold or demonstrated in the country.

The GTA series is rated as follows:

See Also

  • ESRB, the United States and Canadian computer and video game rating system
  • ELSPA, the former British computer and video game rating system, replaced by the PEGI ratings.
  • PEGI, the European computer and video game rating system
  • BBFC, the British Board of Film Classification