Web filter delay not enough for critics

Telcos to block child porn

Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has announced that Telstra, Optus and Primus will block a list of child abuse URLs compiled by the Australian Communications and Media Authority.

The telcos agreed to block child porn material from being accessed by Australian internet users while the review of 'RC' content was under way.
 
"We support the review that was announced today, we support and are willing to voluntarily commit to the blocking of the ACMA list of child pornography sites and we'll continue to work constructively with the government as it undertakes this review," Telstra public policy and communications director David Quilty told reporters in Melbourne.

Google cautious

Google welcomed the voluntary proposals from ISPs on child porn, and cautiously welcomed the government "taking account" of concerns on the RC category.

"While our position on the Government’s proposed filter has not changed, we welcome the recommendation to conduct a review of the RC classification and we look forward to the opportunity to provide input", Karim Temsamani, Managing Director, Google Australia and New Zealand said, reported Gizmodo. 

However, Temsamani reiterated the stance that the filter as it stands would be too broad.

Fierce opposition remains

Many opponents of the filter today voiced their concerns at the inadequacy of a 12-month review in conjunction with the states.

"While we welcome a review of the RC category, this is just tinkering around the edges of the filter’s problems," said Electronic Frontiers Australia Chair Colin Jacobs.

"Applying a classification scheme designed for books and movies to the internet was never going to work.

"Altering the definition of one category won’t change the fact that the government will never, ever, be able to review enough web pages to make any difference to anyone."

Jacobs said Conroy could have let the filter die a natural death, but has chosen to keep it on "life support" in face of public opposition.

"We still urge the Government to listen to the experts, drop the filter, and focus on improving broadband access for all Australians,” said Jacobs.

Greens Senator Scott Ludlam says although he's concerned the government intends to introduce the filter, the decision to delay is welcome.

He says Conroy is finally starting to take some of the concerns about mandatory censorship on board.

Gizmodo reported that The Pirate Party said Australians should be cautious.

'Because for all we know, the review of refused classification could be broadened in scope', President David Crafti said.