Speaking at the Internet Industry Association Annual Gala Dinner, Conroy all but green-lighted the Rudd Government’s election commitment to introduce ISP level filtering to reduce the exposure of children to illegal content, this despite much furore from the industry when it was first tabled as a real possibility.
“Labor has never argued that ISP filtering is a silver bullet solution, but it is an important step in the overall strategy to make the internet a safer place for children,” Conroy said.
Although he acknowledged ISP level filtering could potentially affect Internet speeds, Conroy added little else to quell concerns surrounding the issue, other than to say there would be a trial process to iron out any technical anomalies.
“I can assure you that we will go forward through an informed, consultative and considered process to ensure that a workable solution is found,” Conroy said.
“This evening, I ask the industry to continue engaging with the Government and with my Department to ensure that we achieve an outcome for ISP filtering that meets the needs of industry and the wider community.”
Furthermore, Conroy outlined plans for a range of e-security initiatives to target awareness among home users, students and small businesses.
These include: an E-Security Awareness Week; a National E-Security Alert Service for home users and SMEs to provide them with up-to-date information; and a Youth Advisory Group that will form part of its cyber-safety strategy.
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