The Senate has passed legislation to create an R18+ category for video games.

The new law fulfils the Commonwealth's part of a deal with states and territories to include the new rating in the games classification system.

It was passed last night, without amendments, with bipartisan support.

Previously, the highest rating for computer games has been MA15+, meaning overseas adult-only games are usually banned in Australia or given a lower classification, allowing children to obtain them.

The new laws bring computer games in line with the classification system for films and other material, and make Australia more consistent with international standards.

They have received overwhelming support during years of consultation - one discussion paper received more than 58,000 submissions, with most in favour.

Home Affairs Minister Jason Clare says the new category will inform consumers, parents and retailers which games are not suitable for minors.

"These are important reforms over 10 years in the making," Mr Clare said in a statement on Monday.

"The reforms also mean that adults are able to choose what games they play within the bounds of the law."

Shadow attorney-general George Brandis said it made sense that Australia's classification regime would now be uniform "classifying all media according to a single set of criteria".

"The passage of this bill will no doubt be welcomed by adult gamers all across Australia," Senator Brandis told the Senate.

"The industry has been waiting for this change for some time."

The change has the backing of state and territory attorneys-general who agreed to the classification overhaul in mid-2011.

Provided the states pass complementary legislation, the changes are due to come into effect on January 1.

ABC/AAP