Australian Government Propose New Video Game Age Ratings for Titles Featuring Loot Boxes

As part of its efforts to crack down on video games promoting digital gambling, the Australian government has put forth plans to introduce new age ratings.

According to Rock Paper Shotgun, the proposal sees a major change in Australia’s National Classification Scheme. The amendments will see a minimum classification of R 18+ (Restricted to 18 and over) for titles featuring any elements of simulated gaming. Along with that, a M (Mature – not recommended for persons under 15 years) has also been recommended for games containing paid loot boxes.

Plans for restrictions on games with loot boxes was brought to the forefront by lawmaker Andrew Wilkie last year. Wilkie had introduced a bill to restrict games with paid loot boxes to players aged 18 or over.

The original bill sought the R 18+ for titles like FIFA, which features loot boxes. However, the new proposal sees the games being clubbed in the M rating. At the moment, the popular video game series is rated G (for general audiences). With this proposal, the Albanese government aims to protect young gamers from the vices of gambling and addiction.

The reforms to Australia’s classification scheme have been proposed because they have largely remained untouched, ever since they were introduced in 1995. According to the Stevens Review report released by the government, the industry has undergone several evolutions and changes, which makes the scheme outdated. The Albanese government shared, “The changes will ensure Australian families and consumers are able to benefit from trusted and reliable information to guide their media choices, across all platforms.”