Mature Content and Classification

Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ has been prepared to support publishers depositing publications through National edeposit (NED) as new questions relating to mature content and Australian classification are introduced into the deposit process. These questions help NED and its member libraries identify publications that may require additional access controls, review, or management to ensure that users can make informed decisions about accessing mature content.

Most publications deposited through NED will not contain mature or restricted content and can continue through the standard deposit process. However, where a publication contains content that may only be suitable for mature audiences or has received a classification from the Australian Classification Board, publishers will be asked to provide additional information during deposit. This information assists libraries in applying appropriate access arrangements and meeting their legal and policy obligations.

Q: Why am I being asked about mature content?: A: NED is introducing questions to help identify publications that may contain mature or restricted content. This information helps member libraries apply appropriate access controls and ensure users are informed before accessing mature content.
Q: What does "content that may only be suitable for mature audiences" mean?: A: This refers to content that contains themes, images or material that may not be suitable for children or younger readers, or content that may be subject to restrictions under Australia's classification framework. It can range from advisory content through to restricted publications.
Q: What if my publication is intended for adults but has never been formally classified?: A: If the publication contains content that may only be suitable for mature audiences, answer "Yes" even if the publication has never received an official Australian classification.
Q: Do all publications need an Australian Classification Board classification?: A: No. Most publications deposited in NED will not have received a formal classification from the Australian Classification Board. We ask whether a classification exists and, if so, what classification was assigned.
Q: What is the Australian Classification Board?: A: The Australian Classification Board is Australia’s official body responsible for classifying films, computer games and certain publications under the National Classification Scheme. It assesses content such as violence, sex and coarse language and provides classification categories to inform consumers and protect minors.
Q: Will NED classify my publication?: A: No. NED and its member libraries do not classify publications. Publishers are asked to provide information about content and any existing Australian Classification Board decision so that appropriate access arrangements can be applied.
Q: What happens if I answer “No” to the mature content question?: A: Your deposit will continue through the normal workflow and will not be flagged as containing mature content based on that question.
Q: What happens if I answer “Yes” to the mature content question?: A: You will be asked whether the publication has received a classification from the Australian Classification Board.
Q: What happens if my publication contains mature content but has not been classified?: A: The deposit will be flagged as containing mature content. Access conditions will then be available for selection. Your publication will be discoverable through Trove and library catalogues. Users will see a "Viewer Discretion Advised" notice before accessing the content and need to acknowledge the warning before proceeding.
Q: Will my publication automatically be restricted if I indicate mature content?: A: Not necessarily. The questions help determine whether special handling, warnings, access controls or library review may be required. The outcome depends on the information provided and any applicable classification.
Q: What does "Unrestricted M (Mature)" mean?: A: Unrestricted M (Mature) publications may contain content that is not recommended for readers under 15 years of age, but they remain legally accessible. M is an advisory classification.
Q: What is a Category 1 Restricted publication?: A: Category 1 Restricted publications commonly contain images of sexualised nudity. If selected, the publication will be reviewed by the relevant member library.
Q: What is a Category 2 Restricted publication?: A: Category 2 Restricted publications commonly contain images of actual sexual activity between consenting adults and may only be accessed by adults. These publications will be reviewed by the relevant member library.
Q: What happens when a Category 1 or Category 2 Restricted publication is deposited?: A: The deposit will be routed for review by the member library before access arrangements are determined.
Q: How will restricted publications appear to users?: A: Restricted publications may display a generic sensitive-material image instead of the cover, require acknowledgement before viewing, and provide information about why access controls have been applied. Access may depend on the jurisdiction and their individual legislation.
Q: What is Refused Classification?: A: Refused Classification applies to material that cannot legally be sold, hired, advertised or imported in Australia because it exceeds accepted classification standards.
Q: Can I deposit a publication that has been Refused Classification?: A: No. Publications classified as Refused Classification cannot be accepted as legal deposit material.
Q: What is a submittable publication?: A: A submittable publication is an unclassified publication that, if classified, would likely be Refused Classification, would cause significant offence to a reasonable adult, or would be unsuitable for a minor to see or read. Such material cannot be accepted.
Q: What if I accidentally choose the wrong classification?: A: If you select Refused Classification, you will be shown a warning message. You may dismiss the warning and choose a different classification if your original selection was made in error.
If you realise after submitting your deposit that the wrong classification was selected, contact your member library for assistance.
Q: Will my deposit be rejected if it contains mature content?: A: In most cases, no. Publications containing mature content or an existing Australian classification can still be accepted as legal deposit material. Member libraries may undertake additional review to confirm appropriate access arrangements and ensure the publication meets legal deposit requirements. Publications classified as Refused Classification are the primary category that cannot be accepted as legal deposit material.
Q: Who can I contact if I am unsure how to answer these questions?: A: If you are uncertain about content suitability, classification status, or whether your publication can be deposited, contact your member library for advice.