AUS: R18+ support in doubt

It has emerged that John Rau, the new South Australian attorney-general, is not the huge supporter of the introduction of an R18+ video game rating as had previously been suggested.

Last month MCV reported that Rau, who replaced outspoken violent games sceptic Michael Atkinson, had stated that the lack of an R18+ for games seemed absurd and that it was really just common sense to introduce it”.

However, speaking to GameSpot, Rau has played down these reports, stating that he doesn’t yet have a firm stance on the debate.

I have no preconceptions about this issue and intend to listen to the arguments,” he insisted. I can neither support nor wisely argue against a position if I am not aware of the relevant factors.

It is worth noting that ultimately, the decision does not rest with me alone. Any change would require the support of each jurisdiction’s attorney-general.”