Office of Film and Literature Classification
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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.
[edit] Film and Video Game Ratings
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 minimal in impact.
PG (Parental Guidance) – These films and computer games contain material that a parent might need to explain to younger children.
The content is mild in impact.
M (Mature) – These films and computer games contain material that requires a somewhat mature perspective, but still not enough to be considered too extreme. This is the highest unrestricted rating.
The content is moderate in impact.
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 in impact.
Unlike films, video games do not have R18+ or X18+ ratings. Any games with content higher than MA15+ level will be refused classification and therefore banned from sale in Australia. However, video game developers have the option of toning down those games in order to get the lesser MA15+ rating.
[edit] Previous Video Game Ratings
These ratings are still shown on some older video games that are still on sale in Australia. As with the current ratings, any games with material higher in impact than the MA15+ rating would be refused classification and therefore banned. These were the ratings until Q3 2005.
 | G — General : The G classification is for a general audience. |
 | 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. |
 | M15+ — Mature: Despite the title, material classified M15+ is not recommended for persons under 12 years of age. Nonetheless, there are still no legal restrictions on access. |
 | 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. |
