Netflix warns of classification delays
Netflix says Australia's Classification system can't keep up with the amount of content it is adding.
- Published by David Knox
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Netflix says Australia’s Classification system can’t keep up with the amount of content it is adding, and warns of potential delays to Australian subscribers.
“As Netflix increases its investments in content, more and more titles will need to be given an Australian classification,” Global public policy manager Josh Korn told IT News.
“However, there are significant obstacles associated with classifying large volumes of content.
“Processing delays could result in content being premiered later in Australia than in other Netflix markets.”
It wants to self-classify content. Broadcasters employ in-house content assessors while the games industry uses a classification tool developed in collaboration with the International Age Rating Coalition.
“There is currently no capacity for SVOD providers to self-classify the content supplied to their customers,” Korn said.
The government is currently considering absorbing the Classification Board into the Australian Communications and Media Authority.
Kids OK: Content that we feel is appropriate for children 12 and under is added to a kid-friendly section that’s available on the Netflix website and in the Netflix app on many devices.
Netflix Guidance (G): Members should read reviews or pre-watch the movie or shows to best determine its appropriateness for Little Kids, Older Kids, and Teens.
Adult: Content appropriate for adults 18 and up.
Unrated or Not rated: This film has not been officially reviewed by Netflix or a standards organization.
2 Responses
Is anyone anywhere actually asking for Netflix to rate their content? I can’t see this being a priority for any consumer, particularly if it’s going to lead to less content or delays in content being released.
Is Netflix required by law to provide classification information for their content? The reason I ask as since they’re an overseas company (they don’t charge GST), I would have thought classification rules didn’t apply.