Internode Games Network has the official word from Rockstar as to why Australian's will be playing an edited version of Grand Theft Auto IV. Word is that the OFLC never saw the unedited version, the game they received for rating in December was an edited version from the start. A Rockstar spokesman told Internode GN:

The Australian version of Grand Theft Auto IV was rated by the OFLC in December 2007 as MA15+. Unlike the US and Europe, Australia still lacks an R18+ rating for video games and as a result many games are edited for release in Australia, including most previous Grand Theft Auto releases. While there are some minor differences between the Australian and US/EU versions, they are not significant and we do not believe they take away from the level of scope and detail that make GTA IV such an incredible experience. We would not release the game in Australia if we believed these differences compromised the quality of the game in any way. We strongly support the OLFC and will continue to work within their guidelines; however we believe the government needs to bring games in line with other media by introducing an R18+ rating, or edits to games will continue to be necessary. We encourage consumers to let their politicians know that they support an R18+ rating for games.

Can I just say, here-here to the last two sentences. Australia has been in need of an R18+ rating for games since the early 90's. With games getting more and more realistic, it's becoming harder for some to be released. It's time Prime minister Rudd showed us just how connected he is with the younger generation, it may not help GTA IV, but we can try and insure future GTA games and Rockstar Games (Manhunt 2 anyone?) get the rating they deserve without editing or lots of hard work on Rockstar's part.

But, this should calm all fellow Australian's down for the moment. Nothing major is changed, and we appear to still be able to connect with our friends from other countries without any problems. 18 days and counting guys, I can hear the tapping of fingers on controllers already...

Thanks Internode GN