The Australian authorities are reported to be mulling a new classification regime that could impact mobile games apps, with developers and lobby groups already warning that the introduction of new requirements could be too cumbersome. The proposal would see apps treated “similarly to other online content,” Gizmodo reported, which will mean that only products that are subject to complaints will need to be classified. This provides an alternative to a model that would see all products having to undergo approval before sale, as used for other games, which would require “an army of classifiers” to undertake.

There are still some significant issues which need to be resolved. For example, according to the Sydney Morning Herald there is the possibility that if the government does not introduce an “R18+” rating for adult oriented games, any app rated higher than the existing “MA15+” category will be refused classification completely. It is also not clear if the government intends to extend its reach into other types of apps, which may include adult content.

Several observers also highlighted the potential need for app store providers such as Apple and Google (for Android Market) to tweak their offerings to comply with the Australian market guidelines – which may prove an unwelcome additional burden, for what is a somewhat limited market. Should a product be on the receipt of a complaint which is upheld, leading it to be “refused classification,” it would then be illegal for the app stores to continue distribution. In addition, it would be the responsibility of the app store to display content classifications, and manage compliance with distribution. While there are already some classification options for developers working with existing app stores, these do not align exactly with the Australian requirements.