Classification

The ABC offers you and your family information to help with your viewing choices through classification symbols and consumer advice.

Programs you watch on ABC TV have been classified and scheduled in accordance with the Associated Standard on Television Program Classification. This Standard sets out classification categories, warnings, symbols and time zones when programs may be shown.

The guiding principle in the application of ABC classifications is context. What is inappropriate and unacceptable in one context may be appropriate and acceptable in another. For example, in an arts documentary brief nudity may be appropriate but would likely be inappropriate in a program intended for young children. Factors to be taken into account include the artistic or educational merit of the production, the purpose of a sequence, the tone, the camera work, the intensity and relevance of the material, the treatment, and the intended audience.

Most programs on ABC iview are also classified.

The ABC does not classify news, current affairs or sporting events but aims to provide information about the nature of content likely to cause harm or offence.

Classifiable elements considered in programs are themes of violence, sex, language, drug use and nudity. Based on how these elements are treated, each program is classified G, PG, M or MA15+.

General

G programs are suitable for children to watch on their own but not all G programs are intended for children. Some G programs may be more appropriate for older children or adults. Whether or not the program is intended for children, the treatment of themes and other classifiable elements will be careful and discreet. Examples of G rated content include Bluey, Good Game Spawn Point and Gardening Australia.

Parental Guidance

PG programs may contain themes and concepts which, when viewed by those under 15 years, may require the guidance of an adult. The PG classification signals to parents that material in this category contains depictions or references which could be confusing or upsetting to children without adult guidance. Parents may choose to preview the material for their children or to watch the material with their children, or to be accessible during or after the viewing to discuss the content. Examples of PG rated content include Hard Quiz, Better Date Than Never and Stuff the British Stole.

Mature

Programs classified M contain material that is considered to be potentially harmful or disturbing to those under 15 years. Depictions and references to classifiable elements may contain detail. While most themes may be dealt with, the explicitness and intensity of treatment will determine what can be accommodated in the M classification. More explicit or more intense material, especially violent material, will generally be included in the MA15+ classification.

Programs classified M include an onscreen audio and visual warning about the content, shown at the beginning of the program. Examples of M rated content include The Newsreader, The Last Leg and Mystery Road.

Mature Audience

Programs classified MA15+ deal with issues or contain depictions that require a more mature perspective. This is because the impact of individual elements or a combination of elements is considered likely to be harmful or disturbing to viewers under 15 years of age. MA15+ is the highest classification category on ABC TV.

Programs classified MA15+ include an onscreen audio and visual warning about the content, shown at the beginning of the program. Examples of MA15+ content include rage, The Black Hand and Interview With The Vampire.

Time Zones

The classification time zones for each channel are shown below: