Censorship in Australia

Although Australia is considered to have, in general, both freedom of speech and a free and independent media,^[1] certain subject-matter is subject to various forms of government censorship. These include matters of national security, judicial non-publication or suppression orders, defamation law, the federal Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth), film and literature (including video game) classification, and advertising restrictions.

Some forms of censorship are not administered directly by the government or courts. For example, some foreign websites have on occasion been blocked by Australian internet service providers. More recently, concerns have been raised as to the level of academic freedom enjoyed at Australia's public universities. Outside of these matters, standards for television, radio, recorded music, the press and most commercial advertising are enforced, in the first instance, by means of industry self-regulation.

^ "Australia: Freedom in the World 2021 Country Report". Freedom House. Retrieved 23 May 2021.

[:0-1] "Australia: Freedom in the World 2021 Country Report". Freedom House. Retrieved 23 May 2021.

[1]