The Department of Internal Affairs

The Department of Internal Affairs

Te Tari Taiwhenua

Building a safe, prosperous and respected nation

 

Services › Censorship Compliance › Amendment Act 2005

On 22 February 2005 the Films, Videos and Publications Classification Amendment Act 2005 .pdf (125k)* came into force.

Among other things, the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Amendment Act 2005 introduces a number of significant changes to the enforcement provisions of the principal Act in relation objectionable publications, images and other such material.

As amended, a person who knowingly trades, distributes or makes objectionable materials now faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. Previously the penalty for this offence was limited to a term of imprisonment not exceeding one year.

The penalties for knowingly being in possession of objectionable materials have also increased to either a term of imprisonment not exceeding five years or a fine of up to $50,000.

Powers of search and seizure under the Act have also been increased. As amended, the Act now empowers Inspectors of Publications to obtain search warrants where they have evidence that a suspect is knowingly in possession of objectionable material.

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* This document is in Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) format. You need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. You can download a free version from the Adobe site.