Film Classification
11 06 2008There are six classification categories for films. G, PG and M are advisory categories. Advisory categories are not restricted to anyone. These classifications are recommendations only. MA 15 , R 18 and X 18 are legally restricted categories – in other words, there are laws regarding who can watch material classified MA 15 and over.
It is also possible for a film to be classified ‘RC’ (Refused Classification) – in other words, banned. The Classification Board is required to apply the law and classification guidelines in order to make its decisions. This occasionally results in material being refused a classification, which means that it cannot legally be shown, sold or hired in Australia.
The Classification Board and Classification Review Board
Since we seem to cover this information over and over again I thought I’d just link to it.
The original Mad Max was banned in New Zealand and was Refused classification in Australia. The movie itself is rated R18+ but the T.V. version is Rated MA15+ so it was able to be shown