The board classifies films, computer games and publications. It also decides what consumer advice should be provided. It also classifies internet content referred by the ACMA, and deals with material referred by the Australian Customs Service and enforcement agencies such as the police. The board acts like a filter between the producers, market and audience.
How important is context in the decision making process?
Context is important in the decision making process because it affects decisions of the board. For example if there is a film that may offend a country or cause problems, that particular country may not want to show a particular film.
How is impact assessed?
Impact is assessed on how the audience will react. Will the audience become mentally unstable or change their activities based on a film or computer game. If something is restricted, the audience may become angry. They have to think about the bigger picture.
Research some of the decisions the Board has made in recent years. What content has been refused classification or needed to be amended.
The game Mortal Kombat was refused classification. It contained violence that exceeds strong in impact and was therefore unsuitable for persons aged under 18 years to play. It is the fatalities in the game which was the major reason why the game was classification because there was too much blood and gore.
