A major step in allowing 18+ video game classification has been passed.
The Australian Senate has finally passed the R18+ rating bill for video games.
Jason Clare, Minister for Home Affairs was delighted and had the following to say on the matter, “These are important reforms over 10 years in the making. The R18+ category will inform consumers, parents and retailers about which games are not suitable for minors to play, and will prevent minors from purchasing unsuitable material. The reforms also mean that adults are able to choose what games they play within the bounds of the law.”
Now that this first major step has passed, the various states in Australia are required to pass their own complimentary legislation, as the ratings and classifications are a state issue. It is expected that if things move swiftly in this area, the law could be enacted before or on the projected completion date of January 1, 2013.