Australian Internet Filter Enters Trial Phase 232
blake writes "News.com.au reports "The Government's plan to have internet service providers filter pornography and other internet content deemed inappropriate for children is going full-steam ahead. [...] The trial will evaluate ISP-level internet content filters in a controlled environment while filtering content inappropriate for children." It all sounds in good taste, and we are told that you will be able to opt out at any time, but will putting this filter in place simply give the powers that be the ability to block access to content for their own agendas. Censorship may be necessary, but should it be overseen by Government."
Re:No, no, a thousand times no. (Score:2, Informative)
Re:No, no, a thousand times no. (Score:5, Informative)
The licence for the filter software cost them $AUD 85M, with only 145000 downloads of the software, and no doubt even less active users. Those that want it, have it. But it seems not many people care.
Dan Rutter brings some light on the insanity here [blogsome.com].
Re:No, no, a thousand times no. (Score:2, Informative)
Re:No, no, a thousand times no. (Score:3, Informative)
This latest move is from the new government.
Re:Censorship Is Never Necessary (Score:3, Informative)
I don't think there is much of a difference between any of the parties on this. Can't-you-think-of-the-children (and terror) is an easy sell, massive financial burden on low profit margin ISP's and reduction of network useability takes a little more thinking...
Re:Censorship Is Never Necessary (Score:5, Informative)
I hear this, and I've also heard all of Steven Conroy's announcements, but the TFA seems to suggest this has been in the pipeline an awful lot longer. Tenders for companies to provide the filtering system closed in July last year, and the Australian Communications and Media Authority waited until after the election to announce the successful bid.
I suspect that Helen Coonan would have had a similar announcement to make if the Coalition got up.