We classify the programs broadcast on SBS and base our classification on the Guidelines for the Classification of Films and Computer Games under the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995.
What program classifications are used by SBS?
General (G); Parental Guidance Recommended (PG); Recommended for Mature Audiences (M); Not Suitable for People Under 15 (MA15+); Mature Adult Audience - strong violence (MAV). Consumer advice on the reasons for these classifications is given prior to the start of the program. SBS has a further set of generalised warnings which relate to 'distress' and 'offence' and other more specific areas such as 'graphic surgical procedures' and 'cruelty to animals'. These are unique to SBS.
Does SBS censor programs?
We try to do this as little as possible and will schedule stronger material late in order to avoid editing. Occasionally, however, a program must be cut to bring it within our Codes of Practice. If we judge that the required cut (or cuts) would seriously damage the overall integrity of a program, we would not purchase it.
A groupie story: Inspector Rex, the crime-busting German shepherd from Austria, has the largest following of any character on SBS Television. Since he started airing on the channel in 1994, he has received a fan letters every week; we have even received a book of poems inspired by him!
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