What is prohibited internet content?
Prohibited content is determined according to classification guidelines under the National Classification Scheme. Most people will be familiar with the symbols used for classification of films, DVDs, and television programs, which provide viewers with information about the type of content being shown. The Australian Government has implemented an online content co-regulatory scheme which allows the Australian Communications and Media Authority to require prohibited material hosted in Australia to be ‘taken down’. Prohibited content is internet content within the classifications RC (refused classification’) or X 18+. Certain kinds of extreme content are refused classification, which means it cannot legally be sold or made available. The RC classification includes content that contains: child pornography; bestiality; excessive violence or sexual violence; detailed instruction in crime, violence or drug use. X 18+ includes content that contains actual sexual activity. Online content classi
