Commonwealth legislation

Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Markings and Consumer Advice) Determination 2014

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Commonwealth

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legislative instrument

Plain English Summary

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This Determination prescribes the exact symbols, wording, colours, fonts and where classification markings and consumer advice must appear for publications, films and computer games classified on or after 11 December 2014. It affects publishers, distributors, retailers, advertisers and platforms by standardising how classification information is shown on physical products, at point of purchase or on-screen, and by setting transitional rules for previously‑classified items. Its stated objective is to give consumers ready access to clear classification information to inform their choices.

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What it does

This Determination prescribes the exact markings, consumer‑advice display rules, and visual standards that apply to classified publications, films and computer games in Australia for material classified on or after 11 December 2014 (see s 6). Mechanically, it does four types of things:

Defines which visual elements count as classification markings for films and computer games (classification character; symbol; symbol boxes in square, rectangle and rectangle component forms; description; description box; and the combination box linking symbol and consumer advice) (see s 8 and s 7 definitions).
Specifies where and when those markings and any consumer advice must be displayed: on the physical product where practicable, otherwise before point of purchase, and, if that is not practicable, before point of access (see s 13(3)(a)-(c)). It also prescribes preferred placement (lower left corner of the front face or in close proximity to the title) (see s 10(1)).
Prescribes format, proportion, colour, fonts and legibility requirements for on‑product and on‑screen display; and provides detailed visuals in Schedule 1 (for films and computer games) and Schedule 2 (for publications) including CMYK and RGB values, typefaces and sample combination boxes (see s 12 and Schedule 1 Parts 1-5; Schedule 2).
Sets transitional rules allowing pre‑existing classifications to remain compliant if previously marked under listed determinations or earlier classification laws (see s 4).

The Determination is framed as consumer information regulation: the stated objective is to ensure consumers have ready access to clear classification information to inform choices about publications, films and computer games (see s 5). The instrument is technical and implementation‑oriented; it does not itself create classification categories (those are in the Act), nor does it set penalties or enforcement mechanisms. Enforcement and any offences are left to complementary state and territory enforcement Acts specifically listed in the definition of "complementary classification enforcement laws" (see s 7 definitions and the Note to s 6). The Determination is therefore a standards instrument: it instructs what visual identifiers must be used, how and where, and what alternatives are acceptable where legibility or practicability issues arise (see Schedule 1, s 1.01 and s 13).

Current sections

Direct links to the current provisions in Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Markings and Consumer Advice) Determination 2014.

Part 1

Preliminary

Part 1—Preliminary

Name

1 Name

This determination is the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Markings and Consumer Advice) Determination 2014.

Transitional

4 Transitional

(1) A film or computer game that was classified before the day this determination commences complies with the markings determined for that film or computer game if its markings, and the manner in which the markings are displayed, are in accordance with: (a) this determination; or (b) for a film or computer game classified on or after 1 July 2007 — the Classification (Markings for Films and Computer Games) Determination 2007; or (c) for a film or computer game classified on or after 26 May 2005 — the Classification (Markings for Films and Computer Games) Determination 2005; or (d) for a film or computer game classified on or after 1 January 1996 — the determination under section 8 of the Act that applied on the day the film or computer game was classified; or (e) for a film or computer game classified before 1 January 1996 — the legislation (Commonwealth, State or Territory) that applied on the day the film or computer game was classified. (2) A publication that was classified before 11 December 2014 complies with the markings determined for that publication if its markings, and the manner in which the markings are displayed, are in accordance with: (a) this determination; or (b) for a publication classified on or after 1 January 2008: (i) the Classification (Markings for Publications) Determination 2007 as in force on 1 July 2007; or (ii) the Classification (Markings for Publications) Determination 2007 as in force on 1 February 2008; or (c) for a publication classified on or after 1 September 1999: (i) the Classification (Markings for Publications) Determination 2007 as in force on 1 July 2007; or (ii) the Classification (Markings for Publications) Determination 2007 as in force on 1 February 2008; or (iii) the Determination of Markings for Publications, made under section 8 of the Act on 18 August 1999; or (d) for a publication classified on or after 31 October 1996 — the determined markings published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette No. GN 38 dated 25 September 1996.

Note: Schedule 3 lists classification legislation that was in force before 1 January 1996.

Objective

5 Objective

The objective of this determination is to ensure that consumers have ready access to clear classification information to inform their choices about publications, films and computer games.

Application

6 Application

This determination applies in relation to publications, films and computer games classified on or after 11 December 2014.

Note: Complementary classification enforcement laws may include requirements concerning the display of classification markings and consumer advice relating to classified publications, films and computer games.

Definitions

7 Definitions

In this determination:

Act means the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995.

Advertising Determination means the Classification (Advertising of Unclassified Films and Computer Games Scheme) Determination 2009.

classification means:

(a) for a publication — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(1) of the Act; and
(b) for a film — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(2) of the Act; and
(c) for a computer game — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(3) of the Act;

classification character, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the character set out in column 3 of the item.

classification description, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the description set out in column 5 of the item.

classification description box, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the 2‑dimensional box set out in column 6 of the item.

classification symbol, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the symbol set out in column 4 of the item.

classification symbol box, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means any of the:

(a) classification symbol square; and
(b) classification symbol rectangle; and
(c) classification symbol rectangle component;

applicable to the item.

classification symbol rectangle, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the rectangle set out in column 4 of the item.

classification symbol rectangle component, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the rectangle set out in column 5 of the item.

classification symbol square, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the square set out in column 3 of the item.

combination box means a 2‑dimensional box comprising, on the left, the applicable classification symbol rectangle component, and, on the right, the consumer advice determined in relation to the film or computer game concerned.

Note: Part 5 of Schedule 1 contains examples of combination boxes.

complementary classification enforcement laws mean a provision of any of the following:

(a) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Enforcement) Act 1995 of the Australian Capital Territory;
(b) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1995 of New South Wales;
(c) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Enforcement) Act 1995 of Victoria;
(d) Classification of Films Act 1991 of Queensland;
(e) Classification of Publications Act 1991 of Queensland;
(f) Classification of Computer Games and Images Act 1995 of Queensland;
(g) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995 of South Australia;
(h) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1996 of Western Australia;
(i) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1995 of Tasmania;
(j) Classification of Publications, Films and Computer Games Act of the Northern Territory.

consumer advice, for a publication, film or computer game, means the consumer advice determined in relation to the publication, film or computer game under section 20 of the Act.

consumer advice box, for a film or computer game, means a 2‑dimensional box that is part of a combination box and contains the consumer advice for the film or computer game.

Note Part 5 of Schedule 1 contains examples of combination boxes.

physical product means a physical item on which a publication, film or computer game, or an advertisement for a publication, film or computer game, is recorded, stored, contained, or printed for the purpose of retail distribution or presentation to a consumer.

Examples of physical products
1 disc
2 container for a disc
3 memory stick
4 poster
5 magazine
6 activation card
7 a title board for a computer game that is available for play in a public place

Note 1: The following words and expressions used in this determination are defined in section 5 of the Act: advertisement, classified, and film.

Note 2: Computer game is defined in section 5A of the Act.

Part 2

Markings for films and computer games

Part 2—Markings for films and computer games

Markings for films and computer games

8 Markings for films and computer games

(1) For paragraph 8(1)(a) of the Act, the classification markings for films and computer games are the following: (a) the classification character; (b) the classification symbol; (c) the classification symbol square; (d) the classification symbol rectangle; (e) the classification symbol rectangle component; (f) the classification description; (g) the classification description box; (h) the combination box; prescribed for that classification by this determination.

Part 3

Display of markings for publications, films and computer games

Part 1—Preliminary

1 Name

This determination is the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Markings and Consumer Advice) Determination 2014.

4 Transitional

Note: Schedule 3 lists classification legislation that was in force before 1 January 1996.

5 Objective

The objective of this determination is to ensure that consumers have ready access to clear classification information to inform their choices about publications, films and computer games.

6 Application

This determination applies in relation to publications, films and computer games classified on or after 11 December 2014.

Note: Complementary classification enforcement laws may include requirements concerning the display of classification markings and consumer advice relating to classified publications, films and computer games.

7 Definitions

In this determination:

Act means the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995.

Advertising Determination means the Classification (Advertising of Unclassified Films and Computer Games Scheme) Determination 2009.

classification means:

(a) for a publication — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(1) of the Act; and
(b) for a film — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(2) of the Act; and
(c) for a computer game — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(3) of the Act;

classification character, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the character set out in column 3 of the item.

classification description, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the description set out in column 5 of the item.

classification description box, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the 2‑dimensional box set out in column 6 of the item.

classification symbol, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the symbol set out in column 4 of the item.

classification symbol box, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means any of the:

(a) classification symbol square; and
(b) classification symbol rectangle; and
(c) classification symbol rectangle component;

applicable to the item.

classification symbol rectangle, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the rectangle set out in column 4 of the item.

classification symbol rectangle component, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the rectangle set out in column 5 of the item.

classification symbol square, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the square set out in column 3 of the item.

combination box means a 2‑dimensional box comprising, on the left, the applicable classification symbol rectangle component, and, on the right, the consumer advice determined in relation to the film or computer game concerned.

Note: Part 5 of Schedule 1 contains examples of combination boxes.

complementary classification enforcement laws mean a provision of any of the following:

(a) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Enforcement) Act 1995 of the Australian Capital Territory;
(b) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1995 of New South Wales;
(c) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Enforcement) Act 1995 of Victoria;
(d) Classification of Films Act 1991 of Queensland;
(e) Classification of Publications Act 1991 of Queensland;
(f) Classification of Computer Games and Images Act 1995 of Queensland;
(g) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995 of South Australia;
(h) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1996 of Western Australia;
(i) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1995 of Tasmania;
(j) Classification of Publications, Films and Computer Games Act of the Northern Territory.

consumer advice, for a publication, film or computer game, means the consumer advice determined in relation to the publication, film or computer game under section 20 of the Act.

consumer advice box, for a film or computer game, means a 2‑dimensional box that is part of a combination box and contains the consumer advice for the film or computer game.

Note Part 5 of Schedule 1 contains examples of combination boxes.

physical product means a physical item on which a publication, film or computer game, or an advertisement for a publication, film or computer game, is recorded, stored, contained, or printed for the purpose of retail distribution or presentation to a consumer.

Examples of physical products
1 disc
2 container for a disc
3 memory stick
4 poster
5 magazine
6 activation card
7 a title board for a computer game that is available for play in a public place

Note 1: The following words and expressions used in this determination are defined in section 5 of the Act: advertisement, classified, and film.

Note 2: Computer game is defined in section 5A of the Act.

Part 2—Markings for films and computer games

8 Markings for films and computer games

Part 3—Display of markings for publications, films and computer games

Division 1—General

9 Display of markings and consumer advice

For section 8 of the Act, markings and consumer advice for films and computer games and markings and any consumer advice for publications must be displayed in accordance with this Part.

Note 1: Subsections 7(2) and (3) of the Act set out the classifications for films and computer games in ascending order of restriction.

10 Placement of markings

(1) Where practicable, a marking must be displayed: (a) on the lower left corner of the front face of the thing on which it is displayed; or (b) in close proximity to the title of the publication, film or computer game. (2) For a ‘Category 1 Restricted’ publication or a ‘Category 2 Restricted’ publication contained in opaque packaging material, both the publication and the packaging must display the classification markings.

11 Visibility of markings

(1) A marking must be displayed so that the marking is: (a) prominent, readily identifiable and clearly legible; and (b) easily distinguishable from the background and any other information or moving image with which the marking is displayed. (2) A marking must not be obscured by other material. (3) A marking that is displayed on a screen must be displayed for a period of time that is sufficient to allow the marking to be read in full.

12 Format and proportion of markings

A marking that is required to be displayed must be: (a) for a film or computer game — in the format and proportions shown in Schedule 1. (b) for a publication — in the format and proportions shown in Schedule 2.

Division 2—Requirements for display of markings

13 Display of markings for publications, films and computer games

(1) A classified film or computer game must display: (a) the marking that applies to the film or computer game; and (b) the consumer advice relating to the film or game.

Note: Schedule 1 shows the classification markings for films and computer games.

(2) A classified publication must display the classification marking that applies to the publication and any consumer advice.

Note: Schedule 2 shows the classification markings for publications.

(3) Any marking or consumer advice that is required to be displayed under subsection 13(1) or subsection 13(2) must be displayed: (a) if the publication, film or computer game is a physical product — on the physical product; or (b) if the publication, film or computer game is not a physical product or if, considering the size and type of the physical product, it would not be practicable to display the classification in accordance with paragraph 13(3)(a) — before the point of purchase of the publication, film or computer game; or

Note: The point of purchase for a film includes the point of purchase of tickets to film screenings.

(c) if it is not practicable to display the marking before the point of purchase — before the point of access to the publication, film or computer game.

14 Compliance with Advertising Determination

Despite anything in this Division, an advertisement for a film or a computer game must comply with the Advertising Determination if: (a) the advertisement displays the message; and (b) the film or the computer game has not been classified X 18+ or RC.

15 Display of markings for an advertisement for a classified film or computer game

(1) Markings for advertisements for classified films and computer games must be displayed in the following manner: (a) a printed advertisement for a film or computer game must display the combination box or, if the combination box would not be legible, the classification symbol square or classification symbol rectangle that applies to the film or computer game; (b) a printed advertisement for multiple films or computer games must display: (i) the markings in accordance with section 15(1)(a); and (ii) a legend that lists all classifications and the classification descriptions; (c) subject to subsection 15(3), a still or moving image that advertises a film or computer game on a screen (including an online advertisement) must display: (i) the combination box or, if the combination box would not be legible, the classification symbol rectangle or classification symbol square applicable to the film or computer game; and (ii) the consumer advice relating to the film or game; (d) A physical product that contains only advertisements for 1 or more films or computer games must display: (i) the combination box or, if the combination box would not be legible, the classification symbol square or classification symbol rectangle that applies to the film or computer game that has the highest classification; and (ii) if the title of any of the films or computer games for which the physical product contains an advertisement is listed on the back of the physical product: (A) next to the title of each film or game, the classification symbol square or classification symbol or classification character applicable to the film or computer game; and (B) if practicable, the consumer advice relating to the film or computer game. (2) Subsection 15(1) does not apply to an advertisement for a film or computer game that is in the form of a window cling, a display bin or a standee. (3) If a person to whom the requirement applies under paragraph 15(1)(c) to display either a combination box or consumer advice reasonably considers that they are incapable of adding to the content of the advertisement, it will be sufficient to comply with the paragraph if the classification symbol rectangle or classification symbol square applicable to the film or computer game is displayed.

Note: A person may be incapable of adding to the content of the advertisement if it would be impracticable or costly to do so in the circumstances.

16 Display of markings for an advertisement for a classified publication

In a printed advertisement for a classified publication, the markings shall be: (a) the markings set out in Part 2 of Schedule 2; and (b) the markings shall be increased or reduced in size and scale, along with the rest of the material included in the advertisement; and (c) the markings shall remain in proportion to that material included in the advertisement based upon the publication’s front cover scale.

17 Cross promotions

(1) This section applies to an advertisement: (a) for a product that is not a film or computer game; and (b) that includes: (i) a reference to a film or computer game; and (ii) a reference to the film or computer game being available for viewing, playing, sale or hire. (2) The advertisement must display the markings required under this Subdivision as if the advertisement were an advertisement for the film or computer game.

Division 1

General

Part 1—Preliminary

1 Name

This determination is the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Markings and Consumer Advice) Determination 2014.

4 Transitional

Note: Schedule 3 lists classification legislation that was in force before 1 January 1996.

5 Objective

The objective of this determination is to ensure that consumers have ready access to clear classification information to inform their choices about publications, films and computer games.

6 Application

This determination applies in relation to publications, films and computer games classified on or after 11 December 2014.

Note: Complementary classification enforcement laws may include requirements concerning the display of classification markings and consumer advice relating to classified publications, films and computer games.

7 Definitions

In this determination:

Act means the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995.

Advertising Determination means the Classification (Advertising of Unclassified Films and Computer Games Scheme) Determination 2009.

classification means:

(a) for a publication — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(1) of the Act; and
(b) for a film — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(2) of the Act; and
(c) for a computer game — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(3) of the Act;

classification character, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the character set out in column 3 of the item.

classification description, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the description set out in column 5 of the item.

classification description box, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the 2‑dimensional box set out in column 6 of the item.

classification symbol, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the symbol set out in column 4 of the item.

classification symbol box, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means any of the:

(a) classification symbol square; and
(b) classification symbol rectangle; and
(c) classification symbol rectangle component;

applicable to the item.

classification symbol rectangle, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the rectangle set out in column 4 of the item.

classification symbol rectangle component, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the rectangle set out in column 5 of the item.

classification symbol square, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the square set out in column 3 of the item.

combination box means a 2‑dimensional box comprising, on the left, the applicable classification symbol rectangle component, and, on the right, the consumer advice determined in relation to the film or computer game concerned.

Note: Part 5 of Schedule 1 contains examples of combination boxes.

complementary classification enforcement laws mean a provision of any of the following:

(a) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Enforcement) Act 1995 of the Australian Capital Territory;
(b) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1995 of New South Wales;
(c) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Enforcement) Act 1995 of Victoria;
(d) Classification of Films Act 1991 of Queensland;
(e) Classification of Publications Act 1991 of Queensland;
(f) Classification of Computer Games and Images Act 1995 of Queensland;
(g) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995 of South Australia;
(h) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1996 of Western Australia;
(i) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1995 of Tasmania;
(j) Classification of Publications, Films and Computer Games Act of the Northern Territory.

consumer advice, for a publication, film or computer game, means the consumer advice determined in relation to the publication, film or computer game under section 20 of the Act.

consumer advice box, for a film or computer game, means a 2‑dimensional box that is part of a combination box and contains the consumer advice for the film or computer game.

Note Part 5 of Schedule 1 contains examples of combination boxes.

physical product means a physical item on which a publication, film or computer game, or an advertisement for a publication, film or computer game, is recorded, stored, contained, or printed for the purpose of retail distribution or presentation to a consumer.

Examples of physical products
1 disc
2 container for a disc
3 memory stick
4 poster
5 magazine
6 activation card
7 a title board for a computer game that is available for play in a public place

Note 1: The following words and expressions used in this determination are defined in section 5 of the Act: advertisement, classified, and film.

Note 2: Computer game is defined in section 5A of the Act.

Part 2—Markings for films and computer games

8 Markings for films and computer games

Part 3—Display of markings for publications, films and computer games

Division 1—General

9 Display of markings and consumer advice

For section 8 of the Act, markings and consumer advice for films and computer games and markings and any consumer advice for publications must be displayed in accordance with this Part.

Note 1: Subsections 7(2) and (3) of the Act set out the classifications for films and computer games in ascending order of restriction.

10 Placement of markings

11 Visibility of markings

12 Format and proportion of markings

Division 2—Requirements for display of markings

13 Display of markings for publications, films and computer games

(1) A classified film or computer game must display: (a) the marking that applies to the film or computer game; and (b) the consumer advice relating to the film or game.

Note: Schedule 1 shows the classification markings for films and computer games.

(2) A classified publication must display the classification marking that applies to the publication and any consumer advice.

Note: Schedule 2 shows the classification markings for publications.

Note: The point of purchase for a film includes the point of purchase of tickets to film screenings.

(c) if it is not practicable to display the marking before the point of purchase — before the point of access to the publication, film or computer game.

14 Compliance with Advertising Determination

15 Display of markings for an advertisement for a classified film or computer game

Note: A person may be incapable of adding to the content of the advertisement if it would be impracticable or costly to do so in the circumstances.

16 Display of markings for an advertisement for a classified publication

17 Cross promotions

Display of markings and consumer advice

9 Display of markings and consumer advice

For section 8 of the Act, markings and consumer advice for films and computer games and markings and any consumer advice for publications must be displayed in accordance with this Part.

Note 1: Subsections 7(2) and (3) of the Act set out the classifications for films and computer games in ascending order of restriction.

Placement of markings

10 Placement of markings

Visibility of markings

11 Visibility of markings

Format and proportion of markings

12 Format and proportion of markings

Division 2

Requirements for display of markings

Part 1—Preliminary

1 Name

This determination is the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Markings and Consumer Advice) Determination 2014.

4 Transitional

Note: Schedule 3 lists classification legislation that was in force before 1 January 1996.

5 Objective

The objective of this determination is to ensure that consumers have ready access to clear classification information to inform their choices about publications, films and computer games.

6 Application

This determination applies in relation to publications, films and computer games classified on or after 11 December 2014.

Note: Complementary classification enforcement laws may include requirements concerning the display of classification markings and consumer advice relating to classified publications, films and computer games.

7 Definitions

In this determination:

Act means the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995.

Advertising Determination means the Classification (Advertising of Unclassified Films and Computer Games Scheme) Determination 2009.

classification means:

(a) for a publication — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(1) of the Act; and
(b) for a film — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(2) of the Act; and
(c) for a computer game — a classification mentioned in subsection 7(3) of the Act;

classification character, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the character set out in column 3 of the item.

classification description, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the description set out in column 5 of the item.

classification description box, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the 2‑dimensional box set out in column 6 of the item.

classification symbol, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 2 of Schedule 1, means the symbol set out in column 4 of the item.

classification symbol box, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means any of the:

(a) classification symbol square; and
(b) classification symbol rectangle; and
(c) classification symbol rectangle component;

applicable to the item.

classification symbol rectangle, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the rectangle set out in column 4 of the item.

classification symbol rectangle component, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the rectangle set out in column 5 of the item.

classification symbol square, for a classification mentioned in an item in Part 3 of Schedule 1, means the square set out in column 3 of the item.

combination box means a 2‑dimensional box comprising, on the left, the applicable classification symbol rectangle component, and, on the right, the consumer advice determined in relation to the film or computer game concerned.

Note: Part 5 of Schedule 1 contains examples of combination boxes.

complementary classification enforcement laws mean a provision of any of the following:

(a) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Enforcement) Act 1995 of the Australian Capital Territory;
(b) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1995 of New South Wales;
(c) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Enforcement) Act 1995 of Victoria;
(d) Classification of Films Act 1991 of Queensland;
(e) Classification of Publications Act 1991 of Queensland;
(f) Classification of Computer Games and Images Act 1995 of Queensland;
(g) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995 of South Australia;
(h) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1996 of Western Australia;
(i) Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act 1995 of Tasmania;
(j) Classification of Publications, Films and Computer Games Act of the Northern Territory.

consumer advice, for a publication, film or computer game, means the consumer advice determined in relation to the publication, film or computer game under section 20 of the Act.

consumer advice box, for a film or computer game, means a 2‑dimensional box that is part of a combination box and contains the consumer advice for the film or computer game.

Note Part 5 of Schedule 1 contains examples of combination boxes.

physical product means a physical item on which a publication, film or computer game, or an advertisement for a publication, film or computer game, is recorded, stored, contained, or printed for the purpose of retail distribution or presentation to a consumer.

Examples of physical products
1 disc
2 container for a disc
3 memory stick
4 poster
5 magazine
6 activation card
7 a title board for a computer game that is available for play in a public place

Note 1: The following words and expressions used in this determination are defined in section 5 of the Act: advertisement, classified, and film.

Note 2: Computer game is defined in section 5A of the Act.

Part 2—Markings for films and computer games

8 Markings for films and computer games

Part 3—Display of markings for publications, films and computer games

Division 1—General

9 Display of markings and consumer advice

For section 8 of the Act, markings and consumer advice for films and computer games and markings and any consumer advice for publications must be displayed in accordance with this Part.

Note 1: Subsections 7(2) and (3) of the Act set out the classifications for films and computer games in ascending order of restriction.

10 Placement of markings

11 Visibility of markings

12 Format and proportion of markings

Division 2—Requirements for display of markings

13 Display of markings for publications, films and computer games

(1) A classified film or computer game must display: (a) the marking that applies to the film or computer game; and (b) the consumer advice relating to the film or game.

Note: Schedule 1 shows the classification markings for films and computer games.

(2) A classified publication must display the classification marking that applies to the publication and any consumer advice.

Note: Schedule 2 shows the classification markings for publications.

Note: The point of purchase for a film includes the point of purchase of tickets to film screenings.

(c) if it is not practicable to display the marking before the point of purchase — before the point of access to the publication, film or computer game.

14 Compliance with Advertising Determination

15 Display of markings for an advertisement for a classified film or computer game

Note: A person may be incapable of adding to the content of the advertisement if it would be impracticable or costly to do so in the circumstances.

16 Display of markings for an advertisement for a classified publication

17 Cross promotions

Display of markings for publications, films and computer games

13 Display of markings for publications, films and computer games

(1) A classified film or computer game must display: (a) the marking that applies to the film or computer game; and (b) the consumer advice relating to the film or game.

Note: Schedule 1 shows the classification markings for films and computer games.

(2) A classified publication must display the classification marking that applies to the publication and any consumer advice.

Note: Schedule 2 shows the classification markings for publications.

Note: The point of purchase for a film includes the point of purchase of tickets to film screenings.

(c) if it is not practicable to display the marking before the point of purchase — before the point of access to the publication, film or computer game.

Compliance with Advertising Determination

14 Compliance with Advertising Determination

Display of markings for an advertisement for a classified film or computer game

15 Display of markings for an advertisement for a classified film or computer game

Note: A person may be incapable of adding to the content of the advertisement if it would be impracticable or costly to do so in the circumstances.

Display of markings for an advertisement for a classified publication

16 Display of markings for an advertisement for a classified publication

Cross promotions

17 Cross promotions

1.01

Meaning of markings required under paragraph 13(1)(a)

1.01 Meaning of markings required under paragraph 13(1)(a)

A marking that is required to be displayed under paragraph 13(1)(a) means: (a) the combination box that applies to the film or computer game; or (b) if the combination box would not be legible, the classification symbol rectangle or classification symbol square; or (c) if the classification symbol rectangle or classification symbol square would not be legible, the classification symbol or classification character.

1.02

Indicated markings do not include black background

1.02 Indicated markings do not include black background

In this Schedule, a marking that is superimposed on a black background does not include the black background.

1.03

Colour of classification symbol boxes and classification description boxes not displayed on screens

1.03 Colour of classification symbol boxes and classification description boxes not displayed on screens

A classification symbol box or classification description box must be: (a) if the display is in colour — coloured in accordance with the CMYK values mentioned in column 7 of Part 3 of Schedule 1, or column 5 of Part 4 of Schedule 1 (whichever is applicable), for the applicable classification; and (b) if the display is in black and white — either: (i) coloured in accordance with the CMYK values mentioned in column 7 of Part 3 of Schedule 1, or column 5 of Part 4 of Schedule 1 (whichever is applicable), for the applicable classification; or (ii) in black and white.

1.04

Colour of classification symbol boxes and classification description boxes displayed on screens

1.04 Colour of classification symbol boxes and classification description boxes displayed on screens

A classification symbol box or classification description box that is displayed on a screen, must be coloured in accordance with the RGB values mentioned in column 8 of Part 3 of Schedule 1, or column 6 of Part 4 of Schedule 1 (whichever is applicable), for the applicable classification.

1.05

Font for classification symbol

1.05 Font for classification symbol

A classification symbol must be in FF Din Bold font.

1.06

Font for text in consumer advice boxes and classification description boxes

1.06 Font for text in consumer advice boxes and classification description boxes

(1) Text that is displayed in a consumer advice box must be printed in black Univers condensed regular type on a white background.

Note: Part 5 of Schedule 1 contains examples of combination boxes.

(2) A classification description displayed in a classification description box, must be printed in Univers condensed regular type.

Part 4

Alternative classification symbol boxes — MA 15+ and R 18+

Part 4—Alternative classification symbol boxes — MA 15+ and R 18+

Item	Classification	Alternative classification symbol square	Alternative classification symbol rectangle	CMYK values	RGB values
1	MA 15+			C 0M 100Y 100K 0	R 255G 0B 0
2	R 18+			C 0M 0Y 0K 100	R 0G 0B 0

Part 5

Examples of combination boxes

Part 5—Examples of combination boxes

Schedule 2—Markings for publications

Part 1—Interpretation

1.01 Indicated markings do not include black background

In this Schedule, a marking that is superimposed on a black background does not include the black background.

Part 2—Markings

The marking for a publication classified Unrestricted is as follows:

Unrestricted_Mono

For Unrestricted publications with the consumer advice ‘M (Mature) — Not Recommended for Readers under 15 Years’, the marking is as follows:

Unrestricted_M_Mono

The marking for a publication classified Category 1 Restricted is as follows:

R_Cat1_Mono

The marking for a publication classified Category 2 Restricted is as follows:

R_Cat2_Mono

Schedule 3—Classification legislation in force before 1 January 1996

(section 4, note)

Item	Legislation
1	Film and Computer Games Classification Act 1984 of New South Wales
2	Indecent Articles and Classified Publications Act 1975 of New South Wales
3	Classification of Films and Publications Act 1990 of Victoria
4	Classification of Films Act 1991 of Queensland
5	Censorship of Films Act 1947 of Western Australia
6	Video Tapes Classification and Control Act 1987 of Western Australia
7	Classification of Films for Public Exhibition Act, 1971 of South Australia
8	Films Act 1971 of Tasmania
9	Classification of Publications Act 1984 of Tasmania
10	Film Classification Act 1971 of the Australian Capital Territory
11	Classification of Publications Ordinance 1983 of the Australian Capital Territory
12	Classification of Publications and Films Act 1979 of the Northern Territory

Division 5.1

2 lines of consumer advice

Division 5.1—2 lines of consumer advice

comp_M_15mm_advice_neg_RGB

Division 5.2

3 or 4 lines of consumer advice

Division 5.2—3 or 4 lines of consumer advice

comp_M_15mm_8

Division 5.3

5 lines of consumer advice

Division 5.3—5 lines of consumer advice

comp_M_15mm_7pt_advice_RGB

Schedule 2—Markings for publications

Source text: opening excerpt

Sourced from the Federal Register of Legislation (legislation.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.

Part 1 Preliminary

Part 1—Preliminary

1 Name

This determination is the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Markings and Consumer Advice) Determination 2014.

4 Transitional

Note: Schedule 3 lists classification legislation that was in force before 1 January 1996.

5 Objective

The objective of this determination is to ensure that consumers have ready access to clear classification information to inform their choices about publications, films and computer games.

Compliance under this Determination requires operationalising its visual, placement and advertising rules into product design, packaging, retail displays and advertising workflows. The following checklist is a practical, source‑grounded compliance pathway:

Determine applicability and transitional status
- Confirm the classification date for each title. The Determination applies to items classified on or after 11 December 2014 (s 6). For items classified earlier, consult s 4 transitional provisions to determine whether existing markings remain compliant (s 4(1)-(2)).
Map classification to prescribed marking
- Use Schedule 1 Part 2 (films and computer games) and Schedule 2 Part 2 (publications) to map the classification (G, PG, M, MA 15+, R 18+, X 18+, Category 1 Restricted, Category 2 Restricted, Unrestricted) to the correct classification character, symbol, and description box (Schedule 1 Pt 2; Schedule 2 Pt 2).
Implement correct visual standards
- Ensure colour fidelity: for print, use CMYK values in Schedule 1 Part 3 (s 1.03); for screens, use RGB values in Schedule 1 Part 3 and Part 4 (s 1.04).
- Use the prescribed fonts: FF Din Bold for classification symbols (s 1.05); Univers condensed regular for consumer advice and classification descriptions (s 1.06).
- Follow position and proportion guidance: markings must be in the format and proportions shown in Schedule 1 (films/games) and Schedule 2 (publications) (s 12).
- For combination boxes, use the examples in Part 5 of Schedule 1 (s 7 note and Schedule 1 Part 5).
Apply placement rules
- Where practicable, place the marking on the lower left corner of the front face or in close proximity to the title (s 10(1)). For opaque packaging containing Category 1 or 2 Restricted publications, mark both the contents and the packaging (s 10(2)).
- If the product is not a physical product or the product size/type makes on‑product display impracticable, display the marking before the point of purchase (s 13(3)(b)). If that is not practicable, display before the point of access (s 13(3)(c)).
Ensure visibility and legibility
- Markings must be prominent, readily identifiable and clearly legible, and not obscured by other material (s 11(1)-(2)). For screen displays, set a conservative minimum overlay or caption display time to satisfy s 11(3) ("sufficient to allow the marking to be read in full").
Implement advertising rules
- For printed advertisements for a single film/game, display the combination box or, if the combination box would not be legible, the classification symbol square or rectangle (s 15(1)(a)). For multiple‑title printed ads, include a legend listing all classifications and descriptions (s 15(1)(b)).
- For still or moving image screen advertisements (including online), display the combination box or, if not legible, the rectangle/square symbol, and display the consumer advice (s 15(1)(c)). If you cannot add the combination box or consumer advice because of impracticability or cost, document the reasonable basis for that conclusion and display at least the symbol rectangle or square (s 15(3)).
- For printed advertisements for publications, follow Part 2 of Schedule 2 rules, scaling the marking with the rest of the advertisement and keeping proportions consistent with the publication’s front cover scale (s 16).
- For cross‑promotions referencing availability, display the markings as if the ad were for the film or game (s 17).
Operationalise templates and asset controls
- Create templates for on‑product markings and for advertising assets that lock in fonts, colour values and proportions. For online use, include both RGB assets and fallback monochrome/BW representations as permitted (s 1.03(b)(ii)).
- Maintain version control to ensure older assets used for legacy stock are the exact permitted predecessors under s 4 if you intend to rely on transitional compliance.
Documentation and defensibility
- Where alternative markings are used (hierarchy of legibility per Schedule 1 Pt 1.01) or where the "incapable of adding" advertising exception is relied upon (s 15(3)), document the reasons with contemporaneous evidence: technical constraints, contractual restrictions, cost estimates, or visual proofs showing why the combination box would not be legible.
- Keep records of production runs, proofs, packaging decisions, and approvals to respond to inquiries by regulators enforcing the complementary acts listed in s 7.
Jurisdictional enforcement alignment
- Identify the state/territory enforcement Act applicable to the territories and retail jurisdictions in which the product will be sold or advertised (see s 7 list). Because penalties and enforcement processes are found in those Acts rather than in this Determination, coordinate compliance checks and legal risk assessments against the relevant enforcement legislation.
Testing and monitoring
- For screen and digital placements, conduct user testing to confirm that the display duration and size provide "sufficient" reading time (s 11(3)). For physical products, prototype printed proofs and packaging mockups to ensure colour and font fidelity (s 1.03-1.06).
- Institute periodic audits of in‑store displays and ad placements to ensure ongoing compliance, including checks that multi‑title and compilation products follow the "highest classification" rule for marking (s 15(1)(d)).

This Determination is prescriptive but leaves factual judgements (practicability, legibility, incapacity) to actors in the supply chain. Best practice is to convert those judgments into documented policies and heuristics so that compliance decisions are reproducible and defensible in the event of regulatory scrutiny.