Summary

11.1 In this chapter, the ALRC proposes that the Classification of Media Content Act provide for the development and operation of industry classification codes of practice, consistent with the statutory classification obligations, categories and criteria contained in the Act. The intention is that these codes would assist in the interpretation and application of the statutory classification categories and criteria and introduce some additional flexibility to the regulatory scheme.

11.2 The chapter examines the possible processes for the development of industry classification codes, and proposes mechanisms for the approval and enforcement of codes by the new Regulator. The ALRC also proposes that where an industry classification code of practice relates to media content that must be classified or access to which must be restricted, the Regulator should have power to enforce compliance with the code against any participant in the relevant part of the media content industry.