The Australian game ratings are to undergo significant updates in relation to gambling and loot box content beginning in September 2024. Specifically, games with gambling-like content will now have a minimum classification of R18+, a classification restricted to those over 18 years old. This applies to games featuring simulated betting, such as social casino games.

Furthermore, games incorporating in-game purchases linked to elements of chance, including paid loot boxes, will receive a minimum rating of M. The M classification is recommended for individuals 15 and above, but it's only advisory, not legally enforced.

These alterations will apply exclusively to games released from September 2024 onwards and won't be applied retrospectively. It's worth noting this does not affect titles released prior to the implementation date.

This alteration has come about following a review of Australia's classification regulations in 2020. It was discovered that Australia has the highest per capita gambling losses globally, a number 40% higher than the second-place country. Therefore, implementing mandatory minimum classifications for gambling-related content seemed like an effective way forward.

These changes, however, require unanimous agreement from the National Classification Code and all jurisdictions classification guidelines. The decision was confirmed during the most recent Standing Council of Attorneys-General meeting, which includes the Attorneys-General from the Australian Government and all states and territories.

Despite these regulatory changes being welcomed by some, the Interactive Games & Entertainment Association of Australia has voiced its disappointment, pledging to continue working with related government departments to ensure a clear understanding and agreement of the new regulations' application and impacts.

These are not isolated changes, as there has been a growing global discourse around the connections between loot boxes, gambling, and video games. Just last year, the UK government confirmed it would not establish laws concerning loot boxes. However, the industry was asked to regulate itself. In 2021, US senators lobbied against loot boxes, calling on several game publishers to shield young players from potentially exploitative game designs.