Classifications help you decide which films to choose. Classifications tell you about the impact of the content and the most suitable audience for a film.
 | Check the Classification (CTC) ‘Check the Classification’ (CTC) message for unclassified films and computer games. The film or computer game has been assessed and approved for advertising. You should check the classification closer to the release date. |
 | General (G) The content is very mild in impact. The G classification is suitable for everyone. G products may contain classifiable elements such as language and themes that are very mild in impact. |
 | Parental Guidance (PG) The content is mild in impact. The impact of PG (Parental Guidance) classified films and computer games should be no higher than mild, but they may contain content that children find confusing or upsetting and may require the guidance of parents, teachers or guardians. For example, they may contain classifiable elements such as language and themes that are mild in impact. PG-rated content is not recommended for viewing by people under the age of 15 without guidance from parents, teachers or guardians. |
 | Mature (M) The content is moderate in impact. Films and computer games classified M (Mature) contain content of a moderate impact. M-rated films and computer games are not recommended for children under the age of 15. They include portrayals of elements such as violence and themes that require a mature outlook. However, children under the age of 15 may legally access the material as the classification rating is an advisory category. Parents, teachers and guardians may need to find out more about the specific content before deciding whether the material is suitable for children in their care. |
 | Mature Accompanied (MA15+) The content is strong in impact. MA15+ rated material contains strong content and is legally restricted to people over the age of 15. It contains elements such as sex scenes and drug use that could have a strong impact on the viewer. A person may be asked to show proof of their age before purchasing or viewing an MA15+ film or computer game. Children under the age of 15 may not legally watch, buy or hire MA15+ rated material unless they are in the company of a parent or adult guardian. Children under the age of 15 who go to the cinema to see an MA15+ film must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian for the duration of the film. The parent or adult guardian must also purchase the ticket of the child. The guardian must be over the age of 18 and exercising parental control over the child. |
 | Restricted (R18+) The content is high in impact. R18+ material is restricted to adults as it contains content that is considered high in impact for viewers. This includes content that may be offensive to sections of the adult community. A person may be asked for proof of their age before purchasing, hiring or viewing R18+ films and computer games at a retail store or cinema. |
Common Questions
Who decides the classification?
Generally, all films that are publicly exhibited in Australia must be classified by the Classification Board, which is broadly representative of the Australian community.
Who qualifies as a ‘guardian’ for a person under 15?
The ‘guardian’ must be an adult exercising ‘parental control’ over the person under 15 years of age. The guardian needs to be 18 years or older. An older sibling or friend would not generally satisfy this requirement, whereas a grandparent, aunt or uncle may.
What is the difference between M and MA 15+?
There is no legal restriction on who can see an M film. The content for M films is moderate and a mature perspective is required. M films are recommended for people aged 15 or older. A person needs to be 15 or older to see an MA 15+ film. The content is strong and unsuitable for people aged under 15. However people under 15 can see an MA 15+ film if accompanied by their parent or an adult guardian.
Proof of age at the cinema
Cinemas may verify a person’s age before they provide access to an MA 15+ or R 18+ film. Proof of age (preferably in the form of photo identification) may be requested of the person claiming to be 15 or 18, or of the parent or guardian.
When can a cinema refuse entry to an MA 15+ or R 18+ film?
Cinemas are required to abide by the MA 15+ and R 18+ restrictions. This means refusing entry to an MA 15+ film to any person who reasonably appears to be under 15 and who is not accompanied by his or her parent or a guardian. Entry to an R 18+ film can be refused to any person who reasonably appears to be under 18.
Consumer advice
Additional information about the film, called ‘consumer advice’ gives you an indication of specific content of a film (examples are violence, language, sex). Generally the strongest content is indicated in the consumer advice.
Copyright and piracy
Film theft has an enormous impact on filmmakers, cinema staff and consumers everywhere. You should be alert to the unauthorised use of camcorders and mobile phones in cinemas. Selling or distributing pirated product is a criminal offence.
Further information
You can obtain further information about the National Classification Scheme at www.classification.gov.au
Or contact: Classification Operations Branch
Locked Bag 3 HAYMARKET NSW 1240
Phone: 02 9289 7100
Fax: 02 9289 7101
E-mail: enquiries@classification.gov.au
Copyright and Classification Policy Branch
Phone: 02 6141 3416
www.ag.gov.au
