Aussie Online Retailer Challenges Ruling on X-Rated Video

PERTH, Australia — A story on DailyTelegraph.com reported that online adult retailer AdultShop.com has filed an appeal in a case brought in the Australia, asking the court to reduce the X-rating by Australia’s Classification Review Board (CRB) for a movie titled “Viva Erotica.”

The video is currently rated X18+ and is prohibited from sale in several regions in Australia. According to the Australian film rating system, a movie must contain "real depictions of actual sexual activity ... in a way that is likely to cause offence to a reasonable adult," in order to earn an X-rating.

The retailer argued that though “Viva Erotica” depicted adult performers having intercourse, the video was not offensive and that the X-rating did not accurately reflect community standards for adult content.

In November, Judge Peter Jacobson dismissed the retailer’s petition for judicial review of the CRB’s rating for the film.

On Wednesday, in Australian Federal court, AdultShop.com’s lawyer argued that Judge Jacobson had been incorrect in his judgment to dismiss the retailer’s petition to have the video’s rating reviewed.

According to the lawyer, the video had not been given an X-rating due to content that portrayed violence, bestiality or incest, leading to its R18+ classification.

Federal Justice Antony Siopsis said that the depiction of intercourse could still be considered offensive and that the ratings’ board’s standards for classification were clear.

Siopsis asked, "Don't you start with the presumption that films that do depict actual sex are offensive?"

The hearing is ongoing. AdultShop.com operates a brink-and-mortar store located in Darwin, as well as a retail website.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Pjur Sponsors Düsseldorf's Sex Now Exhibition

Pjur is sponsoring Sex Now Exhibition at NRW-Forum in Düsseldorf, running through May 3, 2026.

Angelface Baddies Debuts 'Daddies for Baddies' Line

Wellness brand Angelface Baddies has introduced its new Daddies for Baddies line of men's wellness products.

Orion Debuts 'RC Vibrating Butt Plug' From 'Anos' Line

Orion Wholesale has introduced the RC Vibrating Butt Plug with Flexible Arms from its Anos line.

Playharda Wholesale, Pure Envy Ink European Distribution Deal

Playharda Wholesale has signed a deal with pleasure brand Pure Envy for distribution in the U.K. and Europe.

XR Brands Launches 'Creature Cocks' Line

XR Brands has introduced its new Creature Cocks collection of men's underwear.

Tenga Launches 2025 Christmas Advent Calendar

Pleasure brand Tenga has launched a 2025 Christmas Advent calendar, now available for pre-order.

The Dungeon Store Debuts 'Thing Noir' Violet Wand Attachment

The Dungeon Store has released the Thing Noir violet wand conductive e-stim accessory.

Pjur, Magasin du Nord Partner for 'Flex Area' Campaign

Pjur and retail brand Magasin du Nord have partnered for the wellness brand’s Flex Area campaign.

Kheper Releases New 'Think Like a Slut' Party Game

Kheper Games has released the new "Think Like a Slut" party game.

Honey Play Box, Creative Conceptions Ink European Distro Deal

Honey Play Box has signed a deal with Creative Conceptions for distribution in the U.K. and Europe.

Show More