Brendan O’ Connor: We’re “Considering The Pros And Cons” Of An R18+ Rating

In addition to the statement released yesterday, the Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’ Connor has just posted an update on the Australian Labor website restating the facts of of yesterday’s Literature Review on violence in video games, but also stating that “Classification Ministers across Australia are carefully considering the pros and cons of introducing an R18+ classification for computer games.”

Again, this is great news. Our major worry, considering the recent Victorian State elections, was that the R18+ issue would be delayed until the next SCAG meeting, but this is the strongest indication yet that a decision may be made on December 10th.

“We need a classification system that protects young minds from any possible adverse affect, while also ensuring that adults are free to make their own decisions about what they play, within the bounds of the law,” Mr O’Connor said.

“Classification Ministers across Australia are carefully considering the pros and cons of introducing an R18+ classification for computer games – restricting the viewing of these games to people aged 18 and above,” Mr O’Connor said.

“As part of their decision making, Ministers requested this literature review and other documents to assist them in making a well informed decision.

“I’m keen to proceed with making this important decision, based on solid and robust evidence. This comprehensive review adds to the material Ministers can rely on to make their decision.”

These comments echo those O’ Connor made earlier, as reported by Computer World.

There are about 50 games in Australia, that are currently MA15+ that in the United States are at a Mature 17 classification and in the United Kingdom an R18+,” claimed O’ Connor. “So in fact it could be said that having an R18+ classification for games, you will be able to reclassify the games that are currently for 15-year-olds, for adults effectively.”

He then made perhaps the most concrete statement yet, almost confirming that the matter will be concluded once and for all on December 10th.

I’m now in the process of talking to Attorneys-General about this issue and we’ll see what happens,” he said. “We are certainly focusing on the issue, we don’t want to leave it there – I think people want to resolve the matter and move onto other issues.”

Home Affairs Minister Voices SUpport For R18+ [Computer World]


The Cheapest NBN 1000 Plans

Looking to bump up your internet connection and save a few bucks? Here are the cheapest plans available.

At Kotaku, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. We have affiliate and advertising partnerships, which means we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. BTW – prices are accurate and items in stock at the time of posting.

Comments


26 responses to “Brendan O’ Connor: We’re “Considering The Pros And Cons” Of An R18+ Rating”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *