THE ACT Government will this week introduce a Bill that, if passed, will allow for an R18+ classification for computer games in the ACT.

The “Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) (Enforcement) Amendment Bill 2012”, will be introduced following the decision of the Standing Committee of Attorneys General, now the Standing Council on Law and Justice. If passed, it will commence January 1, 2013.

“An R18+ category allows governments a greater ability to control the distribution of computer games that may contain content harmful to children,” Attorney General Simon Corbell said.

“This legislation also empowers adults to make informed decisions about what material they purchase and use.”

The Commonwealth Government recently introduced a Bill that also includes a new category of classification for R18+, which is due to commence on January 1 2013.

The Commonwealth is responsible for classifying computer games, films and publications into the relevant categories – G, PG, M, MA15+, R18+ and Refused Classification (RC) – and States and Territories enforce those categories.

“The ACT Government has been a strong advocate in national discussions on the issue of an R18+ classification for computer games in Australia, and I am pleased to be able to introduce this bill to the Legislative Assembly,” Mr Corbell said.

“The ACT will be the first jurisdiction to progress a Bill giving effect to the Commonwealth’s decision to implement the R18+ category in Australia.”