New Zealand: Implemented Films, Videos, and Publications Classification (Objectionable Publications) Amendment Act 2015

On 7 May 2015, the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification (Objectionable Publications) Amendment Act 2015 was enacted, introducing stricter penalties for offences related to objectionable publications. The Act increases the maximum imprisonment terms from 10 to 14 years and establishes a presumption of imprisonment for repeat offenders. It clarifies the possession rules for objectionable electronic publications and requires the Attorney-General's consent for private prosecutions of certain publication offences. These changes aim to enhance the enforcement of laws against objectionable content and provide clear legal frameworks for handling electronic publications. This amendment modifies the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993, which governs the classification of publications, including films, commercial video-on-demand content, and games in New Zealand. It criminalises the possession or trade of objectionable publications, with convictions for knowingly possessing such material resulting in fines up to NZD 50’000 or imprisonment for up to 10 years.