From: AAP, December 21, 2010 11:59AM
THE Federal Government has ordered a wide-ranging review of media classification as a row over access to violent video games continues. Attorney-General Robert McClelland, announcing the review today, said advances in technology meant the whole system of classification needed to be considered. The draft terms of reference for the year-long Australian Law Reform Commission review suggest the classification categories themselves may be changed.
The review is set to look at a host of issues including the impact of classifications on the community and the Government's desire for a strong content and distribution industry. Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor said when the classification scheme began, content and the way it was delivered to consumers was relatively static. "Today, films can be watched in a cinema, on DVD, on TV or downloaded," he said. "Many video games include significant film segments to tell stories, and some films have interactive content."
Comments on the terms of reference will be taken until January 28, 2011 with a full report from the commission due on December 9. The review has been announced in the midst of a continuing debate about legalising the sale of violent video games previously unavailable in retail outlets. Earlier in December, Mr McClelland decided to draw up guidelines for the possible creation of an R18+ classification. The decision angered many family and Christian groups.
No comments:
Post a Comment