Article
18 December 2008
What does 'RP' mean?
Occasionally the Office of Film and Literature Classification will assign an RP13 or RP16 classification to a film. This classification is different from R13 or R16, where it is an offence to supply the film (or DVD) to any person who is under the specified age.
An RP classification means that if the person is under the specified age, they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when seeing the film. A guardian is considered to be a responsible adult (18 years and over), for example a family member or teacher who can provide guidance. If a person under the age specified in the classification is not accompanied by a person such as this, they cannot attend an RP film.
LABELS
RP16
It is illegal to show or sell this to someone under 16 years of age unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
RP13
It is illegal to show or sell this to someone under 13 years of age unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Guidance for Parents and Guardians
Films with an RP label will contain storylines and subject matter that is targeted at an older audience.
When considering whether or not to take children to a film classified as RP13 or RP16, remember that the film is restricted to persons of or over that age unless they are accompanied by an adult. This means that if you are accompanying a younger person to this film, your role is to help them understand the context, themes and material presented in the film to an extent which removes any likelihood of injury to the public good. This means ensuring that they understand what they have seen and giving them an opportunity to think about and discuss any issues the film has raised for them.
As with all film classifications, it is a good idea to read the descriptive note which accompanies the classification to get an indication of the sorts of content that will be included in the film. Content in an RP film may include such things as violence, sexual references, offensive language, drug use and suicide. Written classification decisions on RP films are available upon request from the Office. Please contact the Information Unit if you would like to obtain a copy of a classification decision.
For more information on the RP classification, or to request a copy of a classification decision, please contact the Information Unit.