Govt orders media classification review

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 on Tuesday, 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 in statement.

"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 28 January, 2011 with a full report from the commission due on 9 December.

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, McClelland decided to draw up guidelines for the possible creation of an R18+ classification.

The decision angered many family and Christian groups.

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