Australia is moving toward stricter age verification for adults-only video games. This requires digital platforms to take greater responsibility for preventing minors from accessing games rated 18+. The changes could affect services including Steam, Xbox and PlayStation. As a result, users may be required to verify their age through official identification, payment methods or facial age estimation.
Digital Platforms Face Stronger Verification
The new approach moves beyond traditional age gates that rely on users entering a date of birth. Depending on the platform, players may need to provide a driver’s licence or passport. They could alternatively verify an adult-linked payment method or use automated facial age estimation technology.
Xbox has already taken steps toward compliance. Meanwhile, Steam and PlayStation are expected to introduce similar measures. The changes form part of Australia’s broader online safety framework. In addition, they place greater responsibility on digital platforms to enforce age restrictions.
Game Classification Also Under Review
Australia is also paying closer attention to content that could influence a game’s classification. Alongside violence, simulated gambling mechanics and online communication features are receiving greater scrutiny because of potential risks to younger users.
Games such as Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 and Aliens Fireteam Elite 2 have been cited in discussions surrounding the stricter classification environment. Future major releases, including Grand Theft Auto VI, could keep these issues in the spotlight.
Privacy Concerns Grow
While stronger verification may make it harder for minors to bypass age restrictions, it also raises questions about privacy and data security. Uploading identity documents or providing biometric information creates additional responsibilities for platforms. Furthermore, third-party verification providers will also face new duties.
Payment-based verification may also be imperfect, as minors could potentially use a parent’s card or identification.
For gaming companies, the new requirements could increase compliance costs. Additionally, they may add friction to the purchasing process and influence how games are designed and marketed.
Australia’s approach could also influence other markets as governments consider stronger digital age controls. The key challenge will be balancing effective age protection with user privacy and a convenient purchasing experience.
