The Queensland Government has introduced legislation before Parliament that will see the creation of an R+18 rating for video games, similar to that of films and TV.

 

State Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie said the amendments to the Classification of Computer Games and Images Act 1995 would ensure that the sale of video games is regulated and would head off the black market for elicit content.

 

“We have not had an R18+ rating for computer games previously and these amendments will mirror the current classification system for films,” Mr Bleijie said.

 

“By introducing the rating and legalising the sale of these products, we can ensure material is not being sold illegally on the black market and there is a control mechanism in place.

 

“Some material in these games is certainly not appropriate for children, so this new structure will be a good guide for parents and retailers as to what is appropriate.

 

“Those purchasing the products will be required to present proof of age to ensure only those over the legal age can access the games.

 

“This system has worked with films for a long time and it makes sense for computer games to be treated the same.”

 

Mr Bleijie said the amendments would bring Queensland in line with the rest of the country after a decision was made during the Standing Council of Attorneys-General last year.