SYDNEY ~ Australia has unveiled a new code of conduct to regulate online and mobile phone content which will call for classifications similar to those for films, a government spokesman said.

All content likely to be rated as for viewers aged over 15 will need to be assessed and classified under the code, the Australian Communications and Media Authority said.

“This code assists both children and their parents to make informed choices about what is, or is not, suitable for viewing online or on mobile phones,” it said.

The code of practice has been developed by the Internet Industry Association, a body representing most of the leading Internet content providers in Australia.

It only affects online content originating in Australia.

A spokesman for the authority said it would be binding on members of the association.