Aussie Parliament OK’s R18+ classification

Adult-themed games look set to finally get an official route into the Australian market.

After three years of deliberation, Australia’s Federal Parliament has finally passed legislation that will allow video games to be classified as R18+. Currently the maximum rating available is MA15+, meaning games with content not suitable for 15 year olds are either blocked from release or censored in order to pass reclassification.

The new classification will come into effect on January 1st 2013.

"These are important reforms over 10 years in the making," Federal Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Justice Jason Clare stated.

"The R18+ category will inform consumers, parents and retailers about which games are not suitable for minors to play, and will prevent minors from purchasing unsuitable material. The reforms also mean that adults are able to choose what games they play within the bounds of the law."

Senator Brandis added to the Senate: "The passage of this bill will no doubt be welcomed by adult gamers all across Australia. The industry has been waiting for this change for some time."