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FILM AND VIDEO TAPE CLASSIFICATION (AMENDMENT)
BILL 1993
NEW SOUTH WALES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
(This Explanatory Note relates to this Bill as introduced into Parliament)
The object of this Bill is to amend the Film and Video Tape Classification Act 1984
to introduce a new "MA" Classification for films (including video tapes) that are
unsuitable for viewing by a child under 15 years of age.
The new classification lies between "M" (not recommended for persons under 15)
and "R" films (which it is illegal for persons under 18 to view) in the hierarchy of film
classification.
The amendments:
· specify the grounds for the "MA" classification
· prohibit the public exhibition of "MA" films if a child under 15 years of age is
present (unless the child is accompanied by his or her parent or guardian)
· prohibit the sale or hiring of an "MA" film to a child under 15 years of age
unless the child's parent or guardian consents to the sale
· set out the defences available to persons who show
"MA" films or sell or hire
them
· include amendments of a consequential and transitional nature.
The Bill also amends the Act to remove the need for the censor to formally refuse
classification in New South Wales for a film that has been classified "X" in the
Australian Capital Territory. An "X" classification will now automatically operate as a
refusal of classification in New South Wales.
Clause 1 specifies the short title of the proposed Act.
Clause 2 provides for the commencement of the proposed Act.
Clause 3 gives effect to the Schedule of amendments to the Film and Video Tape
Classification Act 1984 (Schedule
Schedule 1 contains the amendments described above.