Australia is finally getting its R18+ rating after reaching an in-principle agreement last month, with eight of the nine territories voting to approve the classification, with New South Wales Attorney-General Greg Smith being the only one to abstain from the vote, choosing to consult with his cabinet before endorsing the proposal.

Australian Minister for Justice, Brendan O'Connor has announced that Smith has now given "in-principle support" for the new 18+ rating, which means the process to introduce it to video games with adult content can now move ahead as planned. The 18+ rating will be the equivalent of a PEGI 18 rating in Europe or an ESRB 'M' rating in North America.

"I am delighted that NSW has decided to support what is not just a practical public policy, but a very popular policy," declared O'Connor. "Once introduced, the new classification will also afford adults the opportunity to view material designed for adults."

So, with the 18+ rating now moving forward, it's only a matter of time before Aussie gamers can enjoy previously banned games like Mortal Kombat. Censored versions of certain games have been released in Australia under the 15+ rating, but future titles featuring similiarly mature content will be subjected to no such concessions.

[Via Shack News]