Memories of Miss Memory

A couple of weeks ago I wrote a very simple but straightforward letter to my Member of Parliament, Tanya Plibersek, to let her know I am extremely concerned with the internet censorship plans of the current government. Here is her response (see my original letter below).

If you are in any doubt about the issues surrounding this plan please read this factsheet, created by Getup!, which gives you a full outline as to the problems with the scheme.

Dear Sofie,

Thank you for writing to me with your views regarding internet service provider (ISP) filtering. I understand that this issue has attracted criticism from people who are concerned that it will lead to censorship of the Internet.

I have written to the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator the Hon. Stephen Conroy, on behalf of those constituents who have contacted me to express their concerns over ISP filtering, and I know that he is well aware that many people hold strong views about this issue.

Freedom of speech is fundamentally important in a democratic society, however, most Australians agree that there is some material which is not acceptable, particularly for children. This is why we have the National Classification Scheme for classifying films, computer games and publications. Under the Scheme, it is illegal to distribute, sell or make available for hire, material that is deemed Refused Classification (RC).

The internet is already subject to regulation which prevents internet content providers from hosting prohibited content as defined under the Broadcasting Services Act 1992 within Australia. Prohibited content is determined by reference to the Scheme. We also have strong criminal laws aimed at preventing people from possessing or distributing material relating to child sexual abuse, including over the internet.

The Australian Government recognises that the internet is an essential tool for all Australian children through which they can exchange information, be entertained, socialise and do school work and research. The ability to use online tools effectively provides both a skill for life and the means to acquire new skills.

The Government has invested $125.8 million in a comprehensive range of cyber-safety measures, including law enforcement, filtering and education like you suggest. In addition to these measures, the Government is examining the introduction of ISP-level filtering for RC material. Content defined under the Scheme as RC material includes child sexual abuse imagery, bestiality, sexual violence, detailed instruction in crime, violence or drug use and/or material that advocates the doing of a terrorist act. The Government is also considering additional ISP content filtering options for those families who wish to have such a service.

The Government’s policy on ISP filtering is currently being considered. An informed and considered approach is being undertaken, including industry consultation and close examination of overseas models to assess their suitability for Australia.

Filtering technologies have been adopted on a voluntary basis by ISPs in a number of countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, Sweden, Norway and Finland, predominantly to filter child pornography. In these countries, ISP filtering has not affected internet performance to a noticeable level.

You may be aware that the Government is currently undertaking a live pilot, which will provide valuable information on the effectiveness and efficiency of filters installed in an actual ISP network. A report of findings from the pilot will be publicly released.

The Government is committed to working closely with the internet industry to address the concerns of network degradation, over and under blocking, circumvention and costs. These concerns will be carefully considered during the pilot and will further inform the Government’s cyber-safety policy.

The Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy (the Department) has prepared material on a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about ISP filtering. This list is available on the Department’s website at www.dbcde.gov.au/cybersafetyplan.

Thanks again for taking the time to share your views. I can assure you that I will keep them in mind in any dealings I have with my colleagues around this important issue.

Best wishes,
Tanya

The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP
Federal Member for Sydney

—–Original Message—–
From: Sofie Loizou
Sent: Tuesday, 8 September 2009 9:44 PM
To: Plibersek, Tanya (MP)
Subject: Internet Censorship - call for public meeting

Dear Tanya,

I am writing to request that you call a public meeting to discuss the issues surrounding the plans to filter and block information on the internet at the ISP level. I believe this scheme puts my freedom and access to information at risk. I also believe that I am capable of making my own decisions as to what I will and won’t view on the internet. I would like to garner your support in making sure this basic fundamental freedom - access to information - isn’t being put at risk.

I believe I am not alone in this concern and this is why I would like you to call a public meeting so we can voice our issues with you.

No other western country has such draconian plans. It makes me very concerned as to the greater intentions of the government to deny individuals the right to their basic freedoms.

Taxpayer funds would be much better spent educating parents how to filter inappropriate content.

I hope you will support me in sending the message that this scheme is completely unacceptable.

I look forward to your response to this extremely critical matter

Yours Sincerely,

Sofie Loizou