DOWN UNDER—Following a decade-long debate, the Australian government has passed a law that establishes an adult category for video games, bringing the country in line with most of the rest of the world in terms of age classification. The bill passed the Senate last night with bipartisan support.
"Previously," reported ABC News, "the highest rating for computer games has been MA15+, meaning overseas adult-only games are usually banned in Australia or given a lower classification, allowing children to obtain them.
"The new laws bring computer games in line with the classification system for films and other material, and make Australia more consistent with international standards," the article added.
According to Home Affairs Minister Jason Clare, the new category will help consumers, parents and retailers make decision regarding which games are appropriate for minors as well as adults.
"These are important reforms over 10 years in the making," he said Monday, adding, "The reforms also mean that adults are able to choose what games they play within the bounds of the law."
Due to go into effect January 1, or as soon as states pass complementary legislation, the new R18+ video game classification will be equivalent to the ESRB's "M" rating in the States and the PEGI 18 rating in Europe.
