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Adults only ratings for video games on track for 2013

Federal government is attempting to introduce laws that include an R18+ rating for games

An adults only rating for video games may finally become a reality from the start of 2013.

The R18+ rating would be an amendment to the Classification Act 1995 and Broadcasting Services Act 1992 should it pass through parliament.

It was submitted today by Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Justice Jason Clare.

The R18+ classification is expected to be introduced from January 1, 2013, if the bill passes.

With the introduction of the R18+ rating in the classification system, it will mean that video games will be appraised in the same manner as films have been.

The move will also mark an end of a much-criticised rating system that has up to now resulted in several video game times either being censored or banned in last two decades.

The current highest rating is MA15+, which has meant that games such as Duke Nukem 3D and Grand Theft Auto III have had their content edited to meet the Australian rating requirements, while recent titles such as the Mortal Kombat and Syndicate reboots have been banned outright.

Nominations for the 2012 ARN IT Industry Awards open on Tuesday, June 12.

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Tags: games industry, gaming, law, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Justice Jason Clare, R18, retail
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