Government to censor the Internet

[SGB]

Net filter trials 'unlawful', claims engineer (http://www.zdnet.com.au/net-filter-trials-unlawful-claims-engineer-339304184.htm)

Whoa. :eek:

[Hursticon]

Net filter trials 'unlawful', claims engineer (http://www.zdnet.com.au/net-filter-trials-unlawful-claims-engineer-339304184.htm)

Whoa. :eek:

Whoa :eek: Indeed SGB.

Certainly demonstrates a severe lack of Technical expertise in a number of key areas such as State/Federal Government and the industry's governing bodies.

What the bloke describes in that article is Network Engineering Basics 101 really and for the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy (DBCDE) to say what basically comes down to "No we didn't" displays a violent lack of understanding of how the Marshall R3000 series web monitoring, filtering and reporting package actually works.

Well I tend to think that from the ground up, the Government's proposed Internet Filter is riddled with faults both in design and concept, and the execution? - oh don't get me started on the execution...

[SGB]

Well I tend to think that from the ground up, the Government's proposed Internet Filter is riddled with faults both in design and concept, and the execution? - oh don't get me started on the execution...
How I'd love to be in charge of the execution of the policy. That is, taking a 12-gauge shotgun to it and shooting it to smithereens.

[Hursticon]

How I'd love to be in charge of the execution of the policy. That is, taking a 12-gauge shotgun to it and shooting it to smithereens.

:D lol :p

[SGB]

Gillard ducks filter questions (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/07/06/gillard-ducks-filter-questions/)

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Q and A for next week has Scott Ludlum - we might be able to get a few questions on the filter etc in if we send in some not-too-ranty ones.

[SGB]

Gillard: Conroy will get filter into shape (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/07/07/gillard-conroy-will-get-filter-into-shape/)

I think Gillard's just guaranteed herself the loss of votes from the 18-35 demographic.

[1AZRAEL1]

Gillard: Conroy will get filter into shape (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/07/07/gillard-conroy-will-get-filter-into-shape/)

Just finalised my vote against her then.

[SGB]

Comment by Mark Newton (http://www.katelundy.com.au/2010/06/08/my-thoughts-on-an-opt-in-filter/comment-page-2/#comment-35240) this morning on Kate Lundy's blog.


A colleague of mine went to the NANOG conference in California last month. He reported that a significant chunk of his time every day was spent batting away queries from American and European delegates who wanted to know what the hell was going on in Australia, and what had happened to make our Government so terrible. The general perception was that Australia had already implemented Conroy’s censorwall, something previously thought too crazy to contemplate.

In contrast, hardly anyone had heard of the NBN.

Our international reputation is trashed. It’d be nice if someone in the Government cared about that.

[SGB]

Conroy’s implied Lundy ‘child porn’ slur is astounding (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/07/07/conroys-implied-lundy-child-porn-slur-is-astounding/)


EDIT: 'Unlawful' net filter claim referred to AG (http://www.zdnet.com.au/unlawful-net-filter-claim-referred-to-ag-339304332.htm)

[1AZRAEL1]

Conroy’s implied Lundy ‘child porn’ slur is astounding (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/07/07/conroys-implied-lundy-child-porn-slur-is-astounding/)


EDIT: 'Unlawful' net filter claim referred to AG (http://www.zdnet.com.au/unlawful-net-filter-claim-referred-to-ag-339304332.htm)

Seriously, I can picture other countries laughing at us because of this moron Conroy. I really hope this claim that Mr Newton has put through actually leads to an investigation by the AFP.

[SGB]

Conroy: Internet filter bill with fixes will be out by November (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/352371/conroy_internet_filter_bill_fixes_will_by_november/)

[SGB]

ISP filtering legislation on the way (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/filtering-legislation-on-the-way/story-e6frgakx-1225889109550)

[1AZRAEL1]

Gillard to stick with web filter despite disquiet (http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/gillard-to-stick-with-web-filter-despite-disquiet-20100707-100qe.html)


''Images of child abuse, child pornography - they are not legal in our cinemas,'' she said yesterday. ''Why should you be able to see them on the internet? I think that that's the kind of moral, ethical question at the heart of this.''

Why do they continue to use the child abuse/pornography card? We all know that most of that crap gets shared P2P, and not once have I stumbled on any of it in all my years of surfing the net. It's scare mongering I tells ya, they think by saying those magic words that people will be scared into believing that this POS filter will actually do anything.

[5FDP]

It's obvious what needs to happen - internet filtering bill expected to be passed in November; election called in August ;)

[SGB]

Gillard mistaken on net filter push: Greens (http://scott-ludlam.greensmps.org.au/content/media-release/gillard-mistaken-net-filter-push-greens)

And LOL: Tips and rumours from Crikey: Conroy's Dad no fan of Stephen's filter (http://www.freedomtodiffer.com/freedom_to_differ/2010/07/tips-and-rumours-from-crikey-conroys-dad-no-fan-of-stephens-filter.html#tp)

[1AZRAEL1]

And LOL: Tips and rumours from Crikey: Conroy's Dad no fan of Stephen's filter (http://www.freedomtodiffer.com/freedom_to_differ/2010/07/tips-and-rumours-from-crikey-conroys-dad-no-fan-of-stephens-filter.html#tp)

That was actually amusing to read :p

[SGB]

Labor being 'bloody minded' on filter (http://www.zdnet.com.au/labor-being-bloody-minded-on-filter-339304428.htm)

ICT industry all nostalgic for NetAlert (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/219281,ict-industry-all-nostalgic-for-netalert.aspx)

Greens warn Gillard over internet filter (http://www.itwire.com/it-policy-news/government-tech-policy/40276-gillard-must-dump-internet-filter-greens)

Opposition calls on Gov to heed Cyber Safety Committee evidence (http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/352521/opposition_calls_gov_heed_cyber_safety_committee_e vidence/)

Filter cops criticism in cyber-safety commitee (http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/352520/filter_cops_criticism_cyber-safety_commitee/)

[5FDP]

I'm going to ask a stupid question here which I believe I already know the answer to - but will this include a complete blanket ban of all P2P sites such as Piratebay and ISOHunt?

I use torrent sites from time to time; mainly for TV shows that aren't aired here in Australia e.g. Supernatural. Without the ability to download these, I will have no other avenue for watching my favourite shows.

EDIT: Just saw this posted on news.com.au (http://www.news.com.au/technology/communications-minister-stephen-conroy-shelves-controversial-plan-to-censor-the-internet/story-e6frfro0-1225889790995). I wouldn't be surprised if it has been shelved until 2011 because of the pending election.

However, three of Australia's largest internet service providers have agreed to voluntarily block online child pornography material ahead of the Federal Government's planned internet filter. This includes Telstra, Optus and Primus.

[SGB]

I'm going to ask a stupid question here which I believe I already know the answer to - but will this include a complete blanket ban of all P2P sites such as Piratebay and ISOHunt?
It theoretically could.


However, three of Australia's largest internet service providers have agreed to voluntarily block online child pornography material ahead of the Federal Government's planned internet filter. This includes Telstra, Optus and Primus.
What reports have been failing to say is that the fiter will be mandatory for Optus customers. It looks like it'll be mandatory for Telstra customers too. It's likely to be the same for iPrimus customers as well.

So if anyone here is with any of those three ISPs I recommend switching to another ISP ASAP. And let Telstra/Optus/iPrimus know why you're switching to a different ISP.

[dirge]

This is most likely a way to go to the next election with the filter still on the table for the types who want it (and somehow think it'll work) while placating the much larger - less politically influencial - group who want this filter canned.

Which means either they'll 1) wise up and dump it once re-elected (I suspect this is the case - there's more than enough evidence in Conroy's intray) or 2) bring it back soon after the election.

[SGB]

while placating the much larger - less politically influencial - group who want this filter canned.
If the Govt were trying to placate, then they've failed by allowing Optus, Telstra and iPrimus to proceed with their own mandatory censorship systems.

[DarkHyren]

So, Telstra, Optus and Primus are going to block material that hardly exists then.
Good for them! :rolleyes:

Telstra, Optus and Primus would censor a list of child abuse URLs compiled by the Australian Communications and Media Authority
I want to know what they will actually be blocking.
Probally a list full of dead links, child modeling agencies (the kind that put pics in the Target catalog), and sites that claim to be teen porn but are the type of "teens" that are like 25 and just pretending.
It's the Swedish internet censorship list all over again :p

[SGB]

Lateline had a brief piece on the filter this evening. It was balanced, however one thing stood out: an Optus rep admitted filters won't stop availability of CP.

Then dear Optus, why the hell are you implementing one?!

[SGB]

Sky News (http://www.skynews.com.au/) have a poll running: "Should the government scrap its planned introduction of a mandatory internet filter?"

You all know what option to vote for.

[SGB]

Q&A: National Party Senator, Barnaby Joyce, on ISP filtering, Telstra and the NBN (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/352664/q_national_party_senator_barnaby_joyce_isp_filteri ng_telstra_nbn/)

The idiotic Barnaby has likely cost the Nationals some votes.

So that's the Nats and Labor I'll be placing at the bottom of the ballot.

[SGB]

Piece by Mark Newton:

Meet The New Boss, Same As The Old Boss (http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2010/07/meet-the-new-boss-same-as-the-old-boss/)

[SGB]

Friday's filter announcement - full steam ahead (http://www.efa.org.au/2010/07/12/fridays-filter-announcement-full-steam-ahead/)

Can common sense save Labor? (http://www.zdnet.com.au/can-common-sense-save-labor-339304440.htm)

Conroy’s temporary filter all Australia needs (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/07/12/conroys-temporary-filter-all-australia-needs/)

Mixed reactions to filter delay (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/07/12/mixed-reactions-to-filter-delay/)

Internet security consultant urges government to fund more net police (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/internet-security-consultant-urges-government-to-fund-more-net-police/story-e6frg6n6-1225890472418)

[SGB]

Internode, iiNet, VHA won’t filter for now (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/07/12/internode-iinet-vha-wont-filter-for-now/)

[SGB]

A poll by @ABCtech (http://twitter.com/ABCtech):

Would you vote for a political party that supports the internet filter? (http://polldaddy.com/poll/3459431/)

EDIT: According to this (http://www.itwire.com/it-policy-news/government-tech-policy/40339-do-you-support-the-internet-filter) article, the above poll is a combined survey by IT media outlets.

[SGB]

No opt-out for Optus, Telstra filter (http://www.zdnet.com.au/no-opt-out-for-optus-telstra-filter-339304471.htm)

How the tech industry defused the internet filter (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/219614,how-the-tech-industry-defused-the-internet-filter.aspx) (the issue is FAR from diffused; piss-poor op piece)

[5FDP]

This is really sad. I work for Optus and as such receive free home internet access... I am willing to switch to and pay for my internet though someone like Internode like as the article suggests, many people will.

Obviously this won't help if it becomes federal law as all ISP's will be forced to comply.

[GoktimusPrime]

I was talking about this issue with a friend last night, and he compared it with the internet filtering in China. I've used the filtered internet in China.

IT SUCKS BAKUGAN!!

And before anyone makes any snide remarks, it's NOT because I couldn't download "pawn." In fact, "pawn" seemed fairly easy to access there (I was borrowing someone else's computer and... um... they weren't discreet in hiding their files (i.e. they were on the freaking desktop :/))... but I was unable to access a lot of Transformers related sites! A lot of other things like some blogs, forums etc. were inaccessible.

So based on my first hand experience with filtered internet overseas, I must say that I'm NOT looking forward to experiencing it in Australia. :( :mad:

------------
*Bakugan (爆丸) means "exploding balls". I'm not making this up!

[SGB]

Fractious ISPs may fumble their chance on internet filter (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/fractious-isps-may-fumble-their-chance-on-internet-filter/story-e6frgakx-1225890925760)

[1AZRAEL1]

Fractious ISPs may fumble their chance on internet filter (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/fractious-isps-may-fumble-their-chance-on-internet-filter/story-e6frgakx-1225890925760)


However, the voluntary filter scheme rather has fractured the industry than united it, with two major ISPs, Internode and TPG, refusing to co-operate.

Thank god I went with TPG.

[Hursticon]

Thank god I went with TPG.

I concur dude, Thank Anubis!
It is very relieving to finally know where TPG sits on this subject and that the company has an Independent and Intelligent set of minds governing it.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

The State of trust: it's a one way street (http://www.abc.net.au/unleashed/stories/s2952316.htm) - covers the moral/behavioral aspect of it all quite nicely IMO.

[SGB]

The State of trust: it's a one way street (http://www.abc.net.au/unleashed/stories/s2952316.htm) - covers the moral/behavioral aspect of it all quite nicely IMO.

Yes, that's another great piece from Mark Newton. Basically says Govt doesn't trust its citizens.


How would you vote on the internet filter? (http://apcmag.com/how-would-you-vote-on-the-internet-filter.htm) (Everyone should vote on this poll; and get as many folks as you can to do the same)

Dr Tucci is Bewildered (http://www.efa.org.au/2010/07/13/dr-tucci-is-bewlidered/)

yARN: Conroy’s cleverest move yet on the filter (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/352839/yarn_conroy_cleverest_move_yet_filter/)

DBCDE seeks filter policy officers (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/219640,dbcde-seeks-filter-policy-officers.aspx)

Fight The Filter: Thoughts From Ruslan Kogan, CEO Of Kogan Technologies (http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2010/07/fight-the-filter-thoughts-from-ruslan-kogan-ceo-of-kogan-technologies/)

[SGB]

Telstra, Optus to rely on old filter trials (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/219846,telstra-optus-to-rely-on-old-filter-trials.aspx)

I guess that means we can expect Telstra and Optus' censorware to be buggy given the half-assed trials they're relying on for implementation.

[SGB]

A win in the filter debate (for everybody) (http://www.itwire.com/opinion-and-analysis/the-big-house/40449-a-win-in-the-filter-debate-for-everybody) (poor article, IMO; once again, it's author shows a profound poor understanding of the issue)

Cyber Safety Committee censors Family Guy (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/220096,cyber-safety-committee-censors-family-guy.aspx) (I suspect Mark Newton was baiting the committee, and they fell for it, hook line and sinker)

[5FDP]

Communications Minister Senator Stephen Conroy has said that the filter will block only content that "you can't buy [on] DVD" or watch on TV.

I'm assuming that this means 'released material only' not stuff that has yet to be shown or made available to purchase. This sucks for anyone wanting to catch-up on their favourite TV show when the networks here refuse to show it or give it a regular airtime.

The government is really trying to control what we all watch and when aren't they. Sounds familiar to another country I know of...

[Hursticon]

A win in the filter debate (for everybody) (http://www.itwire.com/opinion-and-analysis/the-big-house/40449-a-win-in-the-filter-debate-for-everybody) (poor article, IMO; once again, it's author shows a profound poor understanding of the issue)

Your not wrong there SGB, the "Majority" of non-supporters will be satisfied with the RC Review? - Is Mr. Riley serious? :rolleyes:


Cyber Safety Committee censors Family Guy (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/220096,cyber-safety-committee-censors-family-guy.aspx) (I suspect Mark Newton was baiting the committee, and they fell for it, hook line and sinker)

Gees, the amount of Stupidity that Governs our country is astounding... :rolleyes:
I wonder what they thought of the Drawn Together Movie. :p

[Golden Phoenix]

Every time I hear Conroy speak about this I always hear something like this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8daxCWO5ec0) in the background.

Wonder why?

[SGB]

Adam Internet runs filter tests (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/353474/adam_internet_runs_filter_tests/)

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Your not wrong there SGB, the "Majority" of non-supporters will be satisfied with the RC Review? - Is Mr. Riley serious? :rolleyes:It's a good if not very inventive move if you're pushing for a filter - claim a partial victory, misrepresent opponents' position and ignore the arguments against it, and marginalise those who are totally opposed as fringe extremists.
Classic politics 101, Not Opting Into Child Porn Mark II but with a dash of subtlety. No one who's following the debate and knows the facts would fall for it, but that's not who the article would be targeted at.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

As a small thought, it's probably too late to get a net-roots party registered right? 'Cos a Melbourne-based "Anti-Child Porn Party" handing out How to Vote cards with Conroy last on the ballot might be a good idea. It's not like all of us don't know that the filter will, if anything, aid child pornographers by sweeping the issue under a rug rather than focussing on catching and jailing producers.
You probably wouldn't even need to be a party, just an organisation calling yourself the Anti-Child Porn Alliance or Concerned Citizens Against Child Porn or something. There are enough techheads concerned about the filter to make the idea feasible.

EDIT - It should totally be called the "Won't Somebody Please Think Of the Children? Party":D

[kup]

As a small thought, it's probably too late to get a net-roots party registered right? 'Cos a Melbourne-based "Anti-Child Porn Party" handing out How to Vote cards with Conroy last on the ballot might be a good idea. It's not like all of us don't know that the filter will, if anything, aid child pornographers by sweeping the issue under a rug rather than focussing on catching and jailing producers.
You probably wouldn't even need to be a party, just an organisation calling yourself the Anti-Child Porn Alliance or Concerned Citizens Against Child Porn or something. There are enough techheads concerned about the filter to make the idea feasible.

It's true. To child pornographers, the filter is like the ultimate distraction tactic. The public thinks it's no longer happening because of the filter and the Government will stop any real effort in putting down child pornography because officially their filter should be doing the job.

It's ridiculous.

[Golden Phoenix]

It's true. To child pornographers, the filter is like the ultimate distraction tactic. The public thinks it's no longer happening because of the filter and the Government will stop any real effort in putting down child pornography because officially their filter should be doing the job.

It's ridiculous.

The other down side is that it gives parents a false sense of security. They will think the internet is a safe place when it really isn't. There is some really scary stuff out there.
The kinda scary stuff that stops me from hitting the random page button on Encyclopaedia Dramatica

[SGB]

Looks as if the Liberals are against the filter:

http://noaustraliannetfiltering.blogspot.com/2010/07/joe-hockey-in-cairns.html

I'll wait for official confirmation before getting too excited.

[Golden Phoenix]

Looks as if the Liberals are against the filter:

http://noaustraliannetfiltering.blogspot.com/2010/07/joe-hockey-in-cairns.html

If I had been in their position I would have let it continue on and on, like they have, without giving my position on it until now. Now is the perfect time for them to make it an election issue.
It might be shelved for 12 months, it is still there waiting to be brought in, they can now make a big fuss about it on the big stage and make it an election issue.
Painting Labor as a censorship government like China's for an key issue would probably bring some votes their way

[SGB]

Government plans for expert to check each banned web page (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/government-plans-for-expert-to-check-each-banned-web-page/story-e6frgakx-1225894267976)

Jessi Slaughter and the 4chan trolls - the case for censoring the internet (http://www.news.com.au/technology/jessi-slaughter-and-the-4chan-trolls-the-case-for-censoring-the-internet/story-e6frfro0-1225894369199)

'Open Government' invites filter discussion (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/220413,open-government-invites-filter-discussion.aspx)

Concern at lobby group's influence as Christians get filter plan tip-off (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/concern-at-lobby-groups-influence-as-christians-get-filter-plan-tip-off/story-e6frgakx-1225894280482)

[1AZRAEL1]

Jessi Slaughter and the 4chan trolls - the case for censoring the internet (http://www.news.com.au/technology/jessi-slaughter-and-the-4chan-trolls-the-case-for-censoring-the-internet/story-e6frfro0-1225894369199)

I love how the title for this story is 'the case for censoring the internet"

IMO, it is up to the parents to make sure their kids know the dangers of the internet, not for this regime to give us a mandatory filter!!!

[SGB]

Why Your Senate Vote Matters For Fighting The Filter (http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2010/07/why-your-senate-vote-matters-for-fighting-the-filter/)

[Hursticon]

Why Your Senate Vote Matters For Fighting The Filter (http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2010/07/why-your-senate-vote-matters-for-fighting-the-filter/)

Hmm, very interesting and I might consider this on the day.
I was wondering what exactly had changed with the preferences.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

It's just the How to Vote cards. That's all - except in the above the line options in the Senate, which is based on Proportional Representation (i.e. a vote for whoever is generally a vote for whoever - sadly with Conroy at #1 on the ticket he's bound to get back in). Looking at the usual demographics for Labor and the Greens and their usual level of political awareness the Greens got the better deal here (largely by dint of not being one of the Big 2 1/2), though the bigger than usual protest vote factor will make a difference.
As always the best way to go is to vote how you want and put down your own preferences. Or just vote informal if you want to protest with your vote, but be aware it also 'wastes' it.

[SGB]

Filter not part of preference talks: Greens (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/filter-not-part-of-preference-talks-greens/story-fn59niix-1225894715706)

[SGB]

Q&A with former Communications Minister, Michael Lee: On ISP filtering and browser history data collection (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/353985/q_former_communications_minister_michael_lee_isp_f iltering_browser_history_data_collection/) (I see Lee is using typical Labor language)

Censorship: Labor's hidden policy (http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/07/21/2960252.htm) (Lengthy, but well worth reading and forwarding on to others who may not be aware of the policy; article kills a lot of Govt's arguments)

More delays to filter plan (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/government/more-delays-to-filter-plan/story-fn4htb9o-1225895182862)

[SGB]

Q&A with Green Senator, Scott Ludlam, on what the party wants from Election 2010 (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/354306/q_green_senator_scott_ludlam_what_party_wants_from _election_2010/)

Internode: Voluntary filter an empty promise (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/354295/internode_voluntary_filter_an_empty_promise/)

[SGB]

Survey: Australian's spurn voluntary Internet filter (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/354447/survey_australian_spurn_voluntary_internet_filter/)

[5FDP]

Survey: Australian's spurn voluntary Internet filter (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/354447/survey_australian_spurn_voluntary_internet_filter/)

Not surprising at all. I think the Australian public is a lot smarter than the government takes them for.

[SGB]

WikiLeaks targets the Afghanistan conflict; would the Filter block this? (http://www.itwire.com/business-it-news/security/40685-wikileaks-targets-the-afghanistan-conflict-would-the-filter-block-this)

Where are the ICT Citizens' Assemblies? (http://www.zdnet.com.au/where-are-the-ict-citizens-assemblies-339304779.htm)

[llamatron]

Just want to say thanks to SGB for keeping this updated, the articles are always an interesting read.

[1AZRAEL1]

Just want to say thanks to SGB for keeping this updated, the articles are always an interesting read.

Seconded. Thanks heaps SGB.

[SGB]

Thanks. :)


Latest article:

Swan hints at possible filter changes (http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/07/29/2968192.htm)

[kup]

There is a Pirate Party National Congress tomorrow in Sydney near Martin Place.

It's free but you need to secure your ticket.

I'll be attending, anyone else going?


Hi all,

There are about 45 members attending the Congress, there are a few
tickets left, and there is still time to easily extend the room for
additional members if they chose to attend.

Get your ticket here: http://piratecon.eventbrite.com/

The agenda, which includes all the motions moved by members that I've
received can be found here:

http://pirateparty.org.au/w/images/2/2b/Agenda_2010.pdf (1.6 MB)

If I've missed any, or you want to make an additional motion or amend
your existing motion, please let me know ASAP.

These will be printed and made available at the Congress itself for
those attending.


Kind Regards,

--
Rodney Serkowski
Party Secretary
Pirate Party Australia
----
(e) rodneyserkowski@pirateparty.org.au
(w) http://pirateparty.org.au
(m) +61 409 159 904
(t) @serkowski

[SGB]

Anti-filter postcards being distributed by the Greens:

http://yfrog.com/9gcm8j

:D

[Dkaris]

where can you get those postcards? their awesome!

[SGB]

where can you get those postcards? their awesome!
No idea.

[SGB]

Conroy dubbed dumbest pollie in survey (http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/conroy-dubbed-dumbest-pollie-in-survey-20100801-11196.html)

[fatbot]

A List of all (or most) parties in the upcoming election and their POV on internet censorship: http://dctonyt.blogspot.com/2010/08/australian-political-parties-who-oppose.html

[SGB]

Filter fighter + Liberal young gun: Jamie Briggs (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/08/03/filter-fighter-liberal-young-gun-jamie-briggs/)

[SGB]

Malcolm Turnbull to host anti-filter forum (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/355775/malcolm_turnbull_host_anti-filter_forum/)

[SGB]

Double standards: When filtering is not always mandatory (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/08/05/double-standards-when-filtering-is-not-always-mandatory/)

Turnbull to hold anti-filter forum (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/08/05/turnbull-to-hold-anti-filter-forum/)

[SGB]

An EFA poll:

Will the Proposed Internet Filter affect the way you vote in the Federal Election? (http://twtpoll.com/9ddgp2)

[1AZRAEL1]

All I can say is abso-friggin-lutely it will affect who I vote for. It is the single piece of legislation I am totally against and will not support any party who wants to impose this.

[SGB]

Same here. It's the key reason why I'm not voting Labor this election.


Forgot to post this yesterday:

5 ways around the filter in 2 minutes [Video] (http://openinternet.com.au/2010/08/04/5-ways-around-the-filter-in-2-minutes-video/)

[SGB]

http://twitter.com/scott_thewspot/status/20371070555


Hockey just stated on JJJ Hack that Libs will *not* support internet filter and they will have more detail soon

Encouraging news if true, but don't celebrate yet until the policy is killed (or voted down if legislation is ever tabled).

[5FDP]

http://twitter.com/scott_thewspot/status/20371070555



Encouraging news if true, but don't celebrate yet until the policy is killed (or voted down if legislation is ever tabled).

That at least sounds promising. Best news I've had all day!

[SGB]

Coalition vows to block 'flawed' internet filter (http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/08/05/2974827.htm)

[SGB]

EFA welcomes Liberal stance on filter (http://www.efa.org.au/2010/08/05/efa-welcomes-liberal-stance-on-filter/)

[SGB]

IT Journo Renai Lemay has confirmed (http://twitter.com/renailemay/status/20379413157) that the Opposition won't support the filter in the Senate.


OK, I have had it confirmed, this means the Coalition will vote against this in the senate

So looks like Hockey's comments tonight is indeed official Liberal party stance.


Scott Ludlam PR:

Mandatory net censorship win (http://scott-ludlam.greensmps.org.au/content/media-release/mandatory-net-censorship-win)

[1AZRAEL1]

Well that is a good sign, though I don't like the Libs work choices crap. Either way, can't really win :p

[SGB]

IT’S DEAD: Opposition to block Labor’s filter (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/08/05/its-dead-opposition-to-block-labors-filter/)

Coalition to dump flawed internet filter (http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/coalition-to-dump-flawed-internet-filter-20100805-11kmv.html)

EDIT: ‘Please explain’, Conroy tells Hockey on filter (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/08/05/please-explain-conroy-tells-hockey-on-filter/)

[SGB]

Coalition to block Conroy's internet filter (http://www.news.com.au/features/federal-election/coalition-to-block-conroys-internet-filter/story-e6frfllr-1225901950463)

Liberals would scrap Labor's net filter (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/liberals-would-scrap-labors-net-filter/story-fn59niix-1225901856447)

Libs filter decision applauded (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/government/libs-filter-decision-applauded/story-fn4htb9o-1225901980010)

Liberals to slash net filter (http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/356007/liberals_slash_net_filter/)

Hockey: The Coalition will not vote for a mandatory ISP filter (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/355938/hockey_coalition_will_vote_mandatory_isp_filter/)

Is It All Over? Coalition Will Block The Filter (http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2010/08/is-it-all-over-liberal-party-will-not-support-the-filter/)

Is Conroy’s internet censorship scheme dead? [Video] (http://openinternet.com.au/2010/08/06/is-conroys-internet-censorship-scheme-dead-video/)

Coalition to dump internet filter (http://www.skynews.com.au/tech/article.aspx?id=495308)

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Hooray! Not only do I finally have something the Coalition is doing that I agree with, but more importantly this means it'll never make it past the Senate!
*Does little happy dance, then goes off to look up some pro-euthanasia sites - BECAUSE I CAN.*

If the Labor powers-that-be are smart they'll let this one quietly drop, though I doubt Conroy will let his baby die without a host of inane accusations of people being pro-child porn.

[5FDP]

Great news! Not sure if this has been mentioned anywhere in the media yet, but does anyone know what this means for Optus and Telstra as they said they would introduce mandatory filtering before the end of the year regardless of this legislation.

[SGB]

Hooray! Not only do I finally have something the Coalition is doing that I agree with, but more importantly this means it'll never make it past the Senate!
As long as no Liberals cross the floor if legislation ever gets tabled.



If the Labor powers-that-be are smart they'll let this one quietly drop, though I doubt Conroy will let his baby die without a host of inane accusations of people being pro-child porn.
Doubtful they'll drop it. Gillard was defending the policy earlier today, and went on the usual "illegal" and "you can't see it in cinemas" spiel.



but does anyone know what this means for Optus and Telstra as they said they would introduce mandatory filtering before the end of the year regardless of this legislation
Not sure about that. It's something I'd like to know too.

[SGB]

The internet filter is dead! Long live the filter! (http://www.itwire.com/it-policy-news/government-tech-policy/40988-the-internet-filter-is-dead-long-live-the-filter)

Election 2010: Australian Sex Party positions (http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/356073/election_2010_australian_sex_party_positions/) (*laughs at title of article*)

yARN: Why the Coalition’s filter move is a win for Conroy (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/356107/yarn_why_coalition_filter_move_win_conroy/)

[1AZRAEL1]

Well I am really stoked that the Liberals have finally come out and said their position on it. It is a swing in the right direction for a downright scary policy.

[Hursticon]

Personally, I'm glad that the Liberals have chosen to not support the filter (but for how long?) at least that way it more or less ensures that the legislation is never going to make it through the senate. :D

Still wont sway me towards voting for the coalition solely on this issue though.

[SGB]

Filter will be “exorcised” if it returns, says Turnbull (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/08/09/filter-will-be-exorcised-if-it-returns-says-turnbull/)



at least that way it more or less ensures that the legislation is never going to make it through the senate. :D
As long as no Libs cross the floor to vote against the party.



Still wont sway me towards voting for the coalition solely on this issue though.
Same here, though I may preference them a little higher than I was planning to.

[5FDP]

Even though the governments internet filter appears to be dead in the water, Optus and Telstra are going ahead with theirs :mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad:

Telstra and Optus to start 'clean feed' to block child pornography web pages (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/telstra-and-optus-to-start-clean-feed-to-block-child-pornography-web-pages/story-e6frgakx-1225903166489)

I am ashamed to be working for Optus and will cancel my internet with them despite the fact I get it for free being an employee. I'm sure many will feel the same. Watch their subscriber base move away in droves.

[1AZRAEL1]

I had heard about that. Somewhere I saw that even if the legislation gets blocked in the senate, Optus and Telstra will make there own modifications. Makes me glad we ultimately chose TPG over Telstra (aside from the fact that we get 40G compared to the 12G that Telstra had at the same price)

[SGB]

Even though the governments internet filter appears to be dead in the water, Optus and Telstra are going ahead with theirs :mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad:

Telstra and Optus to start 'clean feed' to block child pornography web pages (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/telstra-and-optus-to-start-clean-feed-to-block-child-pornography-web-pages/story-e6frgakx-1225903166489)
Pretty disgraceful, isn't it?

Seems that Telstra and Optus think their customers are criminals.


EDIT: Michael Malone tweeted (http://twitter.com/mmalone26/status/20764759419) earlier:


Today on 2CS, Conroy says he'll "seek changes at censorship board level" to get around senate block.

So the fight ain't over yet.

[Hursticon]

Even though the governments internet filter appears to be dead in the water, Optus and Telstra are going ahead with theirs :mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad:

Telstra and Optus to start 'clean feed' to block child pornography web pages (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/telstra-and-optus-to-start-clean-feed-to-block-child-pornography-web-pages/story-e6frgakx-1225903166489)

I am ashamed to be working for Optus and will cancel my internet with them despite the fact I get it for free being an employee. I'm sure many will feel the same. Watch their subscriber base move away in droves.

I'm sorry to hear this news, as I've no doubt that people will feel the same way and it speaks volumes of the level of support it has if even Telstra's and Optus' own staff don't approve of the idea.

Whilst it will be an added expense for you now 5FDP, like 1AZRAEL1, I can happily and highly recommend TPG.com.au (http://www.tpg.com.au/). :D


I had heard about that. Somewhere I saw that even if the legislation gets blocked in the senate, Optus and Telstra will make there own modifications. Makes me glad we ultimately chose TPG over Telstra (aside from the fact that we get 40G compared to the 12G that Telstra had at the same price)

I told you that the big Telcos are only out for your money. :p:D


Pretty disgraceful, isn't it?

Seems that Telstra and Optus think their customers are criminals.

And their share holders couldn't be happier! :mad:
I pity those who are currently with the big Telcos: exorbitant costs, poor service, poor coverage and soon to be poor transfer speeds (up/down) with their proposed filters.

And it looks to get worse if the current Opposition wins Government at the next election, cans the NBN and introduces their abortion of a policy that they announced today in addressing Broadband in this country, over wireless??? :confused::mad::rolleyes:
I can't begin to state the monumental flaws in their proposal that basically go absolutely nowhere to address anything at all.

[1AZRAEL1]

Well that sucks. All I can say is Conroy is a f***mook. (I watched once upon a time in mexico last night and burst out laughing when I heard it)

[Autocon]

ha whos with telstra?:mad: rang up upport and got indain girl *shakes head

[Hursticon]

Well that sucks. All I can say is Conroy is a f***mook. (I watched once upon a time in mexico last night and burst out laughing when I heard it)

Annoyingly I missed the ICT Debate today, but managed to catch it just as they started answering questions, they being:

Senator Stephen Conroy: Labor (Communications Minister)
Senator Tony Smith: Liberal/Coalition (Shadow Communications Minister)
Senator Scott Ludlam: Greens

Watching it, I wish we could elect individuals for individual roles, as Senator Ludlam is the only one of the 3 who understands anything in I.T. IMO.

I didn't think it were possible, but Senator Smith is even less informed than Conroy - and Conroy's level of knowledge requires an electron microscope to measure, but he'd probably filter it so we'd never find out.
I couldn't believe the guy, or the policy, not supporting the filter is one thing and a step in the right direction but to put forward what he/they did is like taking a Delorean back to the 1960's with a wooden Flux Capacitor.

[SGB]

Oh dear: Filter issue dogs Kate Lundy (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/08/10/oh-dear-filter-issue-dogs-kate-lundy/)

Coalition to bring back NetAlert (http://www.zdnet.com.au/coalition-to-bring-back-netalert-339305125.htm)

[5FDP]

I'm sorry to hear this news, as I've no doubt that people will feel the same way and it speaks volumes of the level of support it has if even Telstra's and Optus' own staff don't approve of the idea.

Whilst it will be an added expense for you now 5FDP, like 1AZRAEL1, I can happily and highly recommend TPG.com.au (http://www.tpg.com.au/). :D


Thanks Hursticon. I view it (the job) as being a means to an end only. What annoys me is that none of the staff was consulted on this decision and we actually found out through internal commuincations after it had been reported on by the press.

TPG does sound like a great alternative.

[SGB]

What annoys me is that none of the staff was consulted on this decision and we actually found out through internal commuincations after it had been reported on by the press.
If it was on paper or email, any chance you could "leak" that internal communications? :p

[5FDP]

If it was on paper or email, any chance you could "leak" that internal communications? :p

Ummm... no chance whatsoever. I may complain about it on occasion, but I like need my job too much ;)

I could point you in the direction of the discussion paper that was submitted. It's on a public domain and freely accessible.

[SGB]

Family First Has An Even Dumber Filter Policy Than Labor (http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2010/08/family-first-has-an-even-dumber-filter-policy-than-labor/)

Stallman slams filter as ‘human rights attack’ (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/08/11/stallman-slams-filter-as-human-rights-attack/)

[1AZRAEL1]

Family First Has An Even Dumber Filter Policy Than Labor (http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2010/08/family-first-has-an-even-dumber-filter-policy-than-labor/)

Complete morons ay. I love how they want to introduce it, and make people pay for it.

[SGB]

A few articles today ...

Apps and games to face censor, says ALP (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/media/apps-and-games-to-face-censor-says-alp/story-e6frg996-1225905609780) (looks as if ALP's trying to kill the mobile app content industry)

Labor Government has mobile phone games in classification fee crosshairs (http://www.itwire.com/your-it-news/entertainment/41179-labor-government-has-mobile-phone-games-in-classification-fee-crosshairs)

Greens announce cyber-safety policy (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/228970,greens-announce-cyber-safety-policy.aspx)

Greens torpedo any chance of internet filter (http://www.itwire.com/it-policy-news/government-tech-policy/41194-greens-torpedo-any-chance-of-internet-filter) (I wouldn't say it's torpedoed just yet)

Greens would require ISPs to offer PC-based net filters (http://www.itwire.com/it-policy-news/regulation/41184-greens-would-require-isps-to-offer-pc-based-net-filters)

Greens side with Coalition on internet filtering policy (http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/greens-side-with-coalition-on-internet-filtering-policy-20100816-1267o.html)

Greens unveil rival cyber-safety policy (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/08/16/greens-unveils-rival-cyber-safety-policy/)

Greens propose a more comprehensive approach to protecting young people online (http://scott-ludlam.greensmps.org.au/content/media-release/greens-propose-more-comprehensive-approach-protecting-young-people-online)


Btw, the following was tweeted (http://twitter.com/LiberalAus/status/21296053599) about 40 minutes ago by the Liberal Party on their official Twitter account:


The Coalition will not introduce an internet filter. It is flawed technology and will not fix the problem

[SGB]

Ratings review may alter net filter: Conroy (http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/08/17/2985789.htm)

[SGB]

Conroy: Too early for filter last rites (http://www.itwire.com/it-policy-news/government-tech-policy/41231-conroy-too-early-for-filter-last-rites)

Parliament decides if filter is dead: Conroy (http://www.zdnet.com.au/parliament-decides-if-filter-is-dead-conroy-339305289.htm) (Seems to me they've already decided, Senator.)

Refused classification could prove death knell for Labor filter (http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/357389/refused_classification_could_prove_death_knell_lab or_filter/)

[SGB]

Conroy: I’ll never bring the filter in without a vote (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/357538/conroy_ll_never_bring_filter_without_vote/)

People power killed the filter (http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/357554/people_power_killed_filter/) (misleading headline as the filter ain't dead yet)

Fight The Filter: The Summary (http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2010/08/fight-the-filter-the-summary/)

ELECTION 2010 EXCLUSIVE: Face-to-face with Senator Stephen Conroy (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/357528/election_2010_exclusive_face-to-face_senator_stephen_conroy/) (Conroy's proving himself to be a hyprocrite when he says he's democratic)

[SGB]

Labor's internet filter questioned by key-seat hope (http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/labors-internet-filter-questioned-by-keyseat-hope-20100819-12qop.html)

Holy crap, I met this guy ten years ago when he used to work at the 10 Network's Warrawong office.

[SGB]

Opinion: The Filter is dead, but it'll be back (http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/357876/opinion_filter_dead_it_ll_back/)

[SGB]

Time to listen to the tech-heads (http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/08/23/2990961.htm)

NBN liked, ISP filter dogs Labor in election wake (http://www.cio.com.au/article/357896/nbn_liked_isp_filter_dogs_labor_election_wake/)

Oakeshott on broadband and the Internet filter (http://www.cio.com.au/blog/editors-blog/2010/08/25/oakeshott-broadband-and-internet-filter/)

How you shaped the Election (http://www.efa.org.au/2010/08/26/how-you-shaped-the-election/)

[Autocon]

do u google or have this sent to u through email?
appreciated! :)

[SGB]

do u google or have this sent to u through email?
No. I check various news sites each day; I also find some of the articles via Twitter as well.

[SGB]

Independent's Day and the Censorwall (http://www.efa.org.au/2010/09/02/independents-day-and-the-censorwall/)

[SGB]

Analysis: Net gambling next on ISP filter hitlist? (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/230947,analysis-net-gambling-next-on-isp-filter-hitlist.aspx)

[SGB]

News.com.au classed as 'adult website' in audit of politicians' internet use (http://www.news.com.au/technology/newscomau-classed-as-adult-website-in-audit-of-politicians-internet-use/story-e6frfro0-1225914118368)

[SGB]

Labor wins: here comes the NBN, filter, taxes and waste (http://www.itwire.com/opinion-and-analysis/fuzzy-logic/41682-labor-wins-here-comes-the-nbn-filter-taxes-and-waste)

ISP filter could be buried (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/government/isp-filter-plan-could-be-buried/story-fn4htb9o-1225915395171)

[llamatron]

Labor wins: here comes the NBN, filter, taxes and waste (http://www.itwire.com/opinion-and-analysis/fuzzy-logic/41682-labor-wins-here-comes-the-nbn-filter-taxes-and-waste)

That is one of the stupidest articles I've read this election.

[SGB]

Conroy's net filter still alive and kicking (http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/conroys-net-filter-still-alive-and-kicking-20100910-1540s.html)

Senator Quixote deserves to be told off (http://www.efa.org.au/2010/09/10/tell-conroy-off/)

And a blog piece worth a read:

http://jimboot.com/filter-legislation-to-go-ahead

[MV75]

That is one of the stupidest articles I've read this election.

The only silly thing is not believing this. The greens won't stand for long when an ets is waved under their noses.

[Lint]

It may not be too hard to roll the greens but they still have to get an agreement with those independents. And we've all seen how long they can deliberate for.

[SGB]

The only silly thing is not believing this. The greens won't stand for long when an ets is waved under their noses.
I honestly doubt the Greens will buckle. The net censorship policy is not popular among the Greens membership, and Scott Ludlam's done too much work fighting the censorship proposal for them to suddenly cave.

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Besides, everyone knows the Greens are are far-left loonies who refuse to compromise, like on the ETS.
On a not totally unrelated note, those communazis are really pulling the wool over everyone's eyes...even the Australian is calling them independents, and their support is still rising, along with pretty much everyone bar Labor and the Coalition. (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/major-parties-deserted-for-independents-newspoll/story-fn59niix-1225921514456)

[SGB]

UPDATE: Anti-Filter Facebook page blocked due to Unclear Name (http://www.efa.org.au/2010/09/15/anti-filter-facebook-page-blocked-due-to-unclear-name/)

ICANN warns against government control of the Internet (http://www.itwire.com/it-industry-news/strategy/41877-icann-warns-against-government-control-of-the-internet)

[SGB]

Conroy hits back at Turnbull filter critique (http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/09/16/3014064.htm)

[SGB]

No conscience vote on filter: Conroy (http://www.zdnet.com.au/no-conscience-vote-on-filter-conroy-339306069.htm)

[SGB]

The future of internet censorship (http://www.efa.org.au/2010/09/21/the-future-of-censorship/)

Aussie Government Keen To Yank Content From Google Groups (http://www.lifehacker.com.au/2010/09/aussie-government-keen-to-yank-content-from-google-groups/)

[SGB]

Did anti-filter voters put Conroy last? (http://www.zdnet.com.au/did-anti-filter-voters-put-conroy-last-339306192.htm)

US lawmakers bring in worldwide censorship laws (http://www.techeye.net/internet/us-lawmakers-bring-in-worldwide-censorship-laws)

ACTA Still Hasn’t Been Seen by Any UK MPs (http://www.zeropaid.com/news/90827/acta-still-hasnt-been-seen-by-any-uk-mps/)

Gallo report adopted: A stab in the back of citizens' freedoms (http://www.laquadrature.net/en/gallo-report-adopted-a-stab-in-the-back-of-citizens-freedoms)

Latest ACTA Negotiation Kicks Off By Making It Difficult For Consumer Rights Groups To Attend (http://www.techdirt.com/articles/20100922/03550511108/latest-acta-negotiation-kicks-off-by-making-it-difficult-for-consumer-rights-groups-to-attend.shtml)

Digital Dictators (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/courtney-c-radsch/digital-dictators_b_734940.html)

EFF calls US online control bill 'censorship' (http://www.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/1734529/eff-labels-us-copyright-act-censorship)

[SGB]

Internet filter still looms large: Patten (http://www.itwire.com/it-policy-news/regulation/42127-internet-filter-still-looms-large-patten)

[SGB]

Internet filter alive and well (http://www.computerworld.com.au/article/362341/internet_filter_alive_well/)

Conroy: Too early to lose hope on ISP filter (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/233504,conroy-too-early-to-lose-hope-on-isp-filter.aspx)

Senator Conroy not dropping internet filter despite being 'unlikely to get anywhere' (http://www.news.com.au/technology/conroy-not-dropping-internet-filter-despite-being-unlikely-to-get-anywhere/story-e6frfro0-1225930783196)

[SGB]

US Government Now to Use Domain Names to Regulate the Internet (http://www.techweek.org/2081us-government-now-to-use-domain-names-to-regulate-the-internet.html)

Net nanny bypassed in iPad age: Conroy (http://www.zdnet.com.au/net-nanny-bypassed-in-ipad-age-conroy-339306251.htm)

[SGB]

Backlash Against IP Bill Requiring ISPs to Block Pirate Sites (http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2369948,00.asp)

Internet pioneers protest Senate anti-piracy bill (http://voices.washingtonpost.com/posttech/2010/09/internet_pioneers_protest_sena.html)

Engineers Slam Internet ’Censorship’ Bill Under Review by Senate (http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/09/29/engineers-slam-internet-censorship-ahead-key-vote/)

“Access Blocking means looking away instead of acting" (http://ak-zensur.de/2010/09/looking-away.html)

[SGB]

Conroy to receive secret filter forum report (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/10/05/conroy-to-receive-secret-filter-forum-report/)

A-G: Filter won't drive users to encryption (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/234272,a-g-filter-wont-drive-users-to-encryption.aspx) (the AG is really clueless if he believes this)

[SGB]

It's still safe to bypass the filter (http://www.zdnet.com.au/it-s-still-safe-to-bypass-the-filter-339306431.htm)

[SGB]

Gillard won't budge on internet filter (http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/gillard-wont-budge-on-internet-filter/story-e6frfku0-1225937802608)

[SGB]

Gillard: Filter is a “moral question” (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/10/13/gillard-filter-is-a-moral-question/)

Gillard committed to ISP filter plan (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/government/gillard-committed-to-isp-filter-plan/story-fn4htb9o-1225938067670)

Gillard backs controversial web filter (http://news.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/gillard-backs-controversial-web-filter-20101012-16hm0.html)

[SGB]

ACMA blocks more sites (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/government/acma-blocks-more-sites/story-fn4htb9o-1225938240747)

[SGB]

The truth about refused classification (http://www.abc.net.au/unleashed/40072.html)

[SGB]

Online complaints up, take-downs low (http://www.zdnet.com.au/online-complaints-up-take-downs-low-339306596.htm)

The morality of censorship (http://www.efa.org.au/2010/10/14/the-morality-of-censorship/)

[SGB]

WikiLeaks says funding has been blocked after government blacklisting (http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2010/oct/14/wikileaks-says-funding-is-blocked)

Gillard backs it again - so how would the Internet Filter work, exactly? (http://apcmag.com/Content.aspx?id=6297)

[SGB]

AFP: net filter trials were legal (http://www.zdnet.com.au/afp-net-filter-trials-were-legal-339306670.htm)

[SGB]

Conroy’s dept is not working on the filter (http://delimiter.com.au/2010/10/19/conroys-dept-is-not-working-on-the-filter/)

[SGB]

Feds focus on voluntary-filter ISPs (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/235796,feds-focus-on-voluntary-filter-isps.aspx)

Labor's ISP filter plan faces more delays (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/government/labors-isp-filter-plan-faces-more-delays/story-fn4htb9o-1225941055763)

[SGB]

Censorship the real sleeper in the government's $43bn NBN chaos (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/media/censorship-the-real-sleeper-in-the-governments-43bn-nbn-chaos/story-e6frg9bx-1225942946358)

[SGB]

Internet filter should concern Christians (http://www.abc.net.au/technology/articles/2010/10/25/3047577.htm)

[SGB]

Net censorship: fears NBN will push filter plan (http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/net-censorship-fears-nbn-will-push-filter-plan-20101102-17b4d.html)

[SGB]

ISP mandatory filter plan could start in 2013 (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/government/isp-mandatory-filter-plan-could-start-in-2013/story-fn4htb9o-1225954572335)

[SGB]

Our blacklist has failed us: Thai minister (http://www.zdnet.com.au/our-blacklist-has-failed-us-thai-minister-339307333.htm)

[1AZRAEL1]

Not so much on the Filter, but the NBN. Didn't think it needed it's own new topic.

Senate gags minister: give NBN business plan or we silence you (http://www.smh.com.au/national/senate-gags-minister-give-nbn-business-plan-or-we-silence-you-20101118-17yfe.html)

In particular this was said about Conroy


"If this Senate is to uphold that which it has voted on, it has to say to this arrogant minister, to this arrogant government, enough is enough," Senator Abetz told the chamber after the vote.

Made me giggle that someone finally called him arrogant :D

[SGB]

Vint Cerf's message to Australia: internet censorship isn't effective (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/vint-cerfs-message-to-australia-internet-censorship-isnt-effective/story-e6frgakx-1225992330849)

[SGB]

Conroy today went and shot himself in the foot yet again.

Conroy not fooling anyone on an open internet (http://www.efa.org.au/2011/02/03/conroy-not-fooling-anyone/)

[Hursticon]

Conroy today went and shot himself in the foot yet again.

Conroy not fooling anyone on an open internet (http://www.efa.org.au/2011/02/03/conroy-not-fooling-anyone/)

For F@#$ Sake! :rolleyes:

Why?, why is this guy still employed? - Can nobody make individual selections on the Senate Ballet papers these days!?!... Aargh!!! :mad:
(No offense to anyone, but I think supporters of either side of Politics would love to see this guy's career end immediately! :))

[1AZRAEL1]

The guy is a nincompoop (I have wanted to use that word for a while, seems apt :p)

[SGB]

FamilyVoice call to expand ISP filters (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/247083,familyvoice-call-to-expand-isp-filters.aspx)


Come July this year, Telstra, Optus and iPrimus customers will be screwed:

Internet filter on track for July 2011: Conroy (http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/375566/internet_filter_track_july_2011_conroy/)

[1AZRAEL1]

FamilyVoice call to expand ISP filters (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/247083,familyvoice-call-to-expand-isp-filters.aspx)

Great quote from that is "The fence alone does not protect your child, you need to teach your child to swim."

[SGB]

Voluntary filtering on track for mid-2011 (http://delimiter.com.au/2011/02/22/voluntary-filtering-on-track-for-mid-2011/)

And it looks as if the NZ filter is causing speed degradation:

Is this what the DIA filter looks like? (http://techliberty.org.nz/is-this-what-the-dia-filter-looks-like/)

[SGB]

Censorship review report due by end of year (http://www.itnews.com.au/News/248963,censorship-review-report-due-by-end-of-year.aspx)

[SGB]

Telstra, Optus to start censoring the web next month (http://www.news.com.au/technology/internet-filter/telstra-optus-to-begin-censoring-web-next-month/story-fn5j66db-1226079954138)

So glad I'm with Internode now.

[1AZRAEL1]

It will be interesting to see what happens.

[SkyWarp91]

It will be interesting to see what happens.

It will be. If I can't visit my favourite sites with the censorship then it's bye-bye for Bigpond.

[Hursticon]

It will be. If I can't visit my favourite sites with the censorship then it's bye-bye for Bigpond.

There's no better reason to leave Bigpond other than the fact that your with Bigpond. :p

[SkyWarp91]

There's no better reason to leave Bigpond other than the fact that your with Bigpond. :p

true lol. and look at what I found on Wikipedia about this whole conundrum :

Arguments for Internet censorship


It will limit access to some adult content by the general population.
Internet users will be able to use a complaint system which will allow them to report offensive websites that can be blocked.
Websites that teach crime and terrorism will be blocked.


Arguments against Internet censorship

The web filter will not just block child pornography; it will also block any "RC rated material" which will include blocking access to web pages of banned films, books, hardcore pornography and video games that do not meet the MA 15+ standard.
Material that is illegal to view (eg instructions on criminal activity, depictions of child abuse) is a much narrower subset of material that may be classified RC and filtered.
The organisation responsible for classifying media in Australia will not be involved in any way in the filtering process- so the filtered material will typically not technically be RC.
The web filter will block content that meets the requirements for an MA 15+ rating if the Government disapproves of the access control software on the website offering the content.
The web filter will not be able to block peer to peer networks and file sharing programs which are usable for distributing child pornography and allow users to download large amounts of it in a short period of time.
The web filter will also block access to websites about politically sensitive issues which have changing criminality statuses eg euthanasia and abortion.
The web filter may slow down access to the internet; this will contradict the Australian Government’s plan to provide faster broadband access speeds.
The proposed filter may damage Australian - United States relations as the United States government is against Australia's filter plan.
The web filter may be deemed "unconstitutional” under the Australian constitution and may not pass parliament.
The web filter can easily be bypassed by a proxy server.
The web filter's implementation, deployment and maintenance costs would be footed by the tax-payer.
Peadophiles and terrorists use sophisticated techniques to conceal their content from the general public- limiting the need to protect people from this largely invisible information
The most common form of child abuse and including child sexual abuse material can be found on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter published by the children it involves- eg Cyberbullying.
The Australian Federal Police will not allow ACMA to filter child abuse material if doing so will tip off criminals to the discovery of their crime.
After the Australian Federal Police (potentially involving Interpol and the domestic police of the host country) complete a criminal investigation of child abuse material, the filter will only be effective if the police then choose to allow the server hosting the material to remain operational.
It would be more effective to spend the money on cross-border capabilities to shut down hosts of child abuse material at their source.


Yeah pedos and terrorists will just use proxies to get their illegal materials anyway. I think the best thing for customers to do of both Optus and Bigpond when this censorship starts is to complain, complain and complain.

[Dkaris]

i feel i should leave optus just on principle. Why should i pay $80 a month for a filtered service?

If I find my regular sites are effected by this filter i'll be switching to iinet or tpg.

[blackie]

There's no better reason to leave Bigpond other than the fact that your with Bigpond. :p

lol

i actually love bigpond now, mainly because im not paying for it ;P

but theyre speeds are amazing, and ive never had a drop out...

[Hursticon]

i feel i should leave optus just on principle. Why should i pay $80 a month for a filtered service?

You shouldn't, but you'd be helping 5FDP out. :o


If I find my regular sites are effected by this filter i'll be switching to iinet or tpg.

I'd highly recommend it dude, it's the best way to make your voice count. :cool:


lol

i actually love bigpond now, mainly because im not paying for it ;P

but theyre speeds are amazing, and ive never had a drop out...

You're not paying for it? - Then you sir are one of the luckiest Telstra customers in existence and I'm not surprised you've not had a drop-out and have great speeds as your on the country's largest telecommunications monopoly in a major city! :p

[SkyWarp91]

update: according to Accel next month's filtering has been put on-hold. Looks like Conroy has to put it off, AGAIN

Also a question, if Conroy was to be removed from office would there be a difference?

[5FDP]

This is just plain embarrassing that I hear about this through the news channels rather than an internal memo / email.

I'm not involved in any way with our internet business, but it speaks volumes about the level of trust directors and the like have in their staff. I just found out 30 mins ago about the NBN deal; an hour after I read it in the press!

[Hursticon]

Also a question, if Conroy was to be removed from office would there be a difference?

I don't think the policy would be immediately dropped, but I think you'd find that very few ministers would be willing to pick it up considering how unpopular it is. ;)
Senator Stephen Conroy is just too stubborn to drop it, which is an annoying quality of his because it has helped in certain ways with regards to the NBN - I'm still not a fan of his though. :o


I'm not involved in any way with our internet business, but it speaks volumes about the level of trust directors and the like have in their staff. I just found out 30 mins ago about the NBN deal; an hour after I read it in the press!

Yeah, that's crap man but it is great news for the NBN! :D

[SGB]

update: according to Accel next month's filtering has been put on-hold. Looks like Conroy has to put it off, AGAIN
Got a link for that?

[SGB]

Looks like Telstra staff have no frackin' idea what's going on:

http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=1689023&p=54#r1069


And SkyWarp, do you have any links regarding the delay you mentioned? I've not found anything about this anywhere.

[1AZRAEL1]

Looks like Telstra staff have no frackin' idea what's going on:

http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=1689023&p=54#r1069

Ha, typical. They won't tell their staff until the last possible moment.

[SkyWarp91]

And SkyWarp, do you have any links regarding the delay you mentioned? I've not found anything about this anywhere.

Ask Accel

[5FDP]

Looks like Telstra staff have no frackin' idea what's going on:
http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=1689023&p=54#r1069


Unless everyone was made aware of the news article, I'm not surprised. I found out through the news channels rather than an internal communication and since yesterday, there has still been no confirmation or denial that a filter will be imposed from 01/07. It always seems to be the staff that are the last to know, mostly because companies are concerned news will be leaked before an official statement can be made.

[SGB]

Ask Accel
Who are they?

[5FDP]

Who are they?

You mean 'who is he?'... he's a member here dude :p

[SGB]

You mean 'who is he?'... he's a member here dude :p
Well now, I feel like an idiot. :p


Anyway ...

Hackers put Telstra in filter bind (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/hackers-put-telstra-in-filter-bind/story-e6frgakx-1226081618113)

EDIT: Looks like the above story was not accurate:

Telstra proposes to filter Interpol blacklist (http://delimiter.com.au/2011/06/25/telstra-proposes-to-filter-interpol-blacklist/)

[theheretic]

Is this filter likely to affect our Internet speeds dramatically?

[SkyWarp91]

Well now, I feel like an idiot. :p


Anyway ...

Hackers put Telstra in filter bind (http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/hackers-put-telstra-in-filter-bind/story-e6frgakx-1226081618113)

EDIT: Looks like the above story was not accurate:

Telstra proposes to filter Interpol blacklist (http://delimiter.com.au/2011/06/25/telstra-proposes-to-filter-interpol-blacklist/)

Good thing that the filter they're proposing for is only trying to block child-porn sites which is right. Blocking R-rated video game sites and sites about euthanasia or even legal pornography was when it went too far.

[SGB]

Primus may dump voluntary ISP filter (http://delimiter.com.au/2011/06/27/primus-may-dump-voluntary-isp-filter/)

Most ISPs will filter Interpol list this year: IIA (http://delimiter.com.au/2011/06/27/most-isps-will-filter-interpol-list-this-year-iia/)

“It’s not censorship”: IIA defends Interpol blacklist (http://delimiter.com.au/2011/06/27/its-not-censorship-iia-defends-interpol-blacklist/)

[Accel]

Who are they?

It was just a rumor a friend heard. but he has nothing to back it up / can't tell me anything to back it up to why it may be delayed. I get the feeling it was just the telstra staff not knowing what the hell is happening

[SGB]

Interpol blacklist goes live in Canberra (http://www.zdnet.com.au/interpol-blacklist-goes-live-in-canberra-339317824.htm)


And according to a Whirlpool user, Telstra will start censoring this week:

http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=1723711&p=7#r125

[SGB]

Telstra’s Interpol filter goes live (http://delimiter.com.au/2011/07/01/telstras-interpol-filter-goes-live/)

[SGB]

Optus’ filter to go live later this month (http://delimiter.com.au/2011/07/04/optus-filter-to-go-live-later-this-month/)

And this is no surprise:

Optus’ filter can be defeated by ‘trivial’ DNS change (http://delimiter.com.au/2011/07/04/optus-filter-can-be-defeated-by-trivial-dns-change/)

[Accel]

Am I the only one surprised 4chan wasn't blacklisted? XD

[Burn]

I don't know if it's related but bloody hell the Telstra connection was iffy at work today.

[KillinSpoon]

Am I the only one surprised 4chan wasn't blacklisted? XD

Sigh of relief from me :P
I was wondering why my internetz was a tadddd slower today. :/

[bowspearer]

The problem I see there is "based on". Where's the accountability? We already know the federal govt has censored not just a single page of an anti-abortion site and the website of a former SA candidate campaigning on anti-abortion issues.

I'm not going to get into that debate either way here, but the fact is that if the govt has already censored that, then what's stopping them from censoring, say, opposition to the carbon tax?

[bowspearer]

And in a recent development in Scotland: http://www.infowars.com/state-prosecutes-sports-fan-for-saying-mean-things-on-facebook/

[Burn]

So in addition to trying to control what we access via the internet, now they want to control how we use electricity (http://www.news.com.au/money/power-cuts-by-remote/story-e6frfmci-1226114484088)

[Gutsman Heavy]

I can't wait till they start saying we've lived long enough and start mass euthanasia.

[Accel]

so when do we start calling each other Comrade?

[Hursticon]

so when do we start calling each other Comrade?

Call me Polarclaw! ;):p

[5FDP]

The "Six Strikes" initiative starts tomorrow in the US.


Following the untimely demise of proposed anti-piracy laws SOPA and PIPA, five Internet service providers (specifically AT&T, Cablevision Systems, Comcast, Time Warner Cable and Verizon) worked with the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and the Obama administration to create another set of protocols to stop digital pirates in their tracks.

Source (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/23/copyright-alert-system_n_2176505.html)

Also - http://news.cnet.com/8301-13578_3-57532205-38/at-t-set-to-start-six-strike-anti-piracy-campaign/

In local news, even though the government has abandoned plans for an internet filter, Communications Minister Stephen Conroy says internet services providers (ISPs) have instead been issued with orders to block websites listed on Interpol's 'worst of' database.


"We've reached agreement with all of the telco service providers that they will block the worst of the worst - the child abuse pornography material that's available on the public internet," Senator Conroy told AM.

"Police have issued notices to a whole range of companies, and the few remaining companies that make up about 10 per cent will (soon) start receiving notices."


Source (http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-11-09/government-abandons-plans-for-internet-filter/4362354)

On top of this, the popular internet file sharing site the Pirate Bay has been under constant DDoS attack this month.

It will be interesting to see how this all plays out in the coming months.

[jazzcomp]

DDos attack - Is this the reason why TPG is telling me that i have been sending unwanted traffic and that I have trojan virus?

[5FDP]

DDos attack - Is this the reason why TPG is telling me that i have been sending unwanted traffic and that I have trojan virus?

No, it's just a 'denial of service' meaning you can't access the site. There are no errors, the page just times out.

[5FDP]

It's back on the agenda (http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/george-brandis-signals-government-crackdown-on-online-piracy-20140214-32q62.html) boys. Everything old is new again, or just re-badged with this government. Heaven forbid if they ever came up with their own ideas and thoughts :rolleyes:

[Trailer Park Ninja]

Yes lets waste resources and money into something like trying to control the internet like Big Brother and for Murdoch's interests.

Don't worry about the mass jobs losses in the manufacturing industry or job creation, or a plan for the economy which looks to go into recession in the near future.

[The_Damned]

but they don't have a mandate to bring this in:confused:

Didnt they say they weren't going to bring this in. Tony wouldn't lie to me would he?:rolleyes:

[Trent]

The amusing thing is that Rupert and his ilk think that if he can stop me downloading stuff then I will cough up for pay tv. What he fails to realise is that I will simply not watch tv anymore ;)

[Golden Phoenix]

Palm meet Face, Face this is Palm

[Bidoofdude]

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7383/12283905475_70d0b5ff3e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/68801062@N05/12283905475/)
wat (http://www.flickr.com/photos/68801062@N05/12283905475/) by Bidoofdude (http://www.flickr.com/people/68801062@N05/), on Flickr

How would they even go about doing that? :confused:

[Gutsman Heavy]

Pff, what a waste of time, I'll stop pirating when there's a service worth using.

[SkyWarp91]

Argh set sails for the seas to evade those law enforcees!

[Hursticon]

...this just frustrates me to the point where I can't come up with anything useful to add beyond: "Who's for a Federal Bi-Election? :) - Conroy, you're banned from competing too!". :mad:

[5FDP]

Here's (http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-02-26/lemay-internet-piracy-talks-must-include-the-consumers/5285020) a very interesting read if you have the time. Pretty much what the majority of us feel IMO.

[kup]

Here's (http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-02-26/lemay-internet-piracy-talks-must-include-the-consumers/5285020) a very interesting read if you have the time. Pretty much what the majority of us feel IMO.

Yep, sums it up nicely. The politicians only want to enforce things not from a moral point of view but rather pressure from lobbying corporations.

I say and predict that democracy is now an illusion for the common people. The world is now ran by corporations and the politicians merely their puppets.

[Deonasis]

Compounded with the comments of new NBN chairman Ziggy-a-man-of-failures-Switkowski.. http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2014/02/nbn-cos-chairman-doesnt-think-aussies-need-gigabit-internet-any-time-soon/
Movie companies, Foxtel and Telstra seem to be on easy street.

[Skullcruncher]

It makes me so frustrated when I come back from overseas on a holiday. Not because the holiday is over but what other countries are doing and Australia is standing still - or going backwards. :(

[1AZRAEL1]

I'm still gonna say it. We need someone like V to bring the government crashing down.

[kup]

I'm still gonna say it. We need someone like V to bring the government crashing down.

Australians tend to be more passive aggressive. We complain a lot but the revolutionary spirit is not really there. The stand will always be 'This sucks but whatyagonnado..'

House prices are ridiculous - Politician's fault
Cost of living is ridiculous - Politician's fault.
Our road and transport infrastructure is horrible - Politician's fault.
Our Telecommunications infrastructure is not even 3rd world - Politician's fault.

All because for the last 30 years (at least), politicians are not representing the people but monopolists or big corporations. Labor tends to side with Unions but they are also corrupt as shit and one of the reasons why we have such high wages which is taken advantage of by corporations pushing up the cost of living so high and causing jobs to go overseas.

[Deonasis]

I blame (some of ours) convict past for the wadaryagunnado-non-revolutionary attitude.

[Hursticon]

I blame (some of ours) convict past for the wadaryagunnado-non-revolutionary attitude.

When you've been arrested & sent to the other side of the world for nothing more than flogging a loaf of bread to feed your starving family, because you're at the lower end of the social-economic spectrum and that's considered a criminal offence? - You'd feel somewhat apathetic towards life too I'd imagine. :o

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Compounded with the comments of new NBN chairman Ziggy-a-man-of-failures-Switkowski.. http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2014/02/nbn-cos-chairman-doesnt-think-aussies-need-gigabit-internet-any-time-soon/
Movie companies, Foxtel and Telstra seem to be on easy street.

Interesting read that one. Working in cinema in which is now mostly digital, I know for a fact that one option being looked at was digital transferring of films for sites, as it save delivery costs as well as the cost of physical drives.

However it was quickly put down due to the slow internet speeds we have...

Sure, a family might have trouble using up 100mps of speed, but I bet business wouldn't have that much trouble.

What narrow mindedness the leaders of this country have.

[kup]

What narrow mindedness the leaders of this country have.

I say that it's more them looking after their own interests. The Libs are running Telstra's agenda because they give them good mulah. Without the copper network, Telstra's monopoly is dead so they will defend and oppose anything that would threaten it to the very end.

Labour is just freaking stupid and incompetent.

[Bartrim]

I didn't read the links on here so correct me if I'm wrong but are we all upset about the Governments stance on internet piracy?

My 2cents (might as well throw it in) Yes I'm not happy but it is illegal so I can't exactly justify having a whinge about the Government trying to put a stop to it.

[Gutsman Heavy]

I pirate a lot, so if they actually manage to stifle it I'll be dissapointed. But hey if something is good I buy it anyway, so I'll only really stop watching/Reading as much trash.

[5FDP]

The governments discussion paper (http://www.news.com.au/technology/online/illegal-downloading-in-governments-sights-as-online-copyright-infringement-discussion-paper-takes-aim-at-consumers-isps/story-fnjwneld-1227004467973) on how they plan to curb 'illegal' downloads is almost here. What I find interesting is that it appears to be a direct rip-off of the UK's proposed plan (http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2014/07/uk_government_effectively_decriminalises_download_ piracy_raising_importance_of_system_security) which was subsequently thrown out the window. Basically, in the UK, they have ruled that they cannot make the ISP's accountable which makes sense because if it were up to the ISP's, then they would have to pass the cost of policing this onto the consumer. I cannot see the 80% of people who do not engage with online piracy copping this on the chin.

Back here in Australia, the main sore point seems to be associated with Game of Thrones - the most downloaded show in history. Keen observers will also note that the main party flogging the governments agenda is News.com.au which is owned by News Corp Australia, which half-owns Foxtel, the company responsible for bringing Game of Thrones to our shores :rolleyes:

It will be interesting to see how this plays out from here but in all honesty, for those that download, I wouldn't hold your collective breaths just yet.

[kup]

The governments discussion paper (http://www.news.com.au/technology/online/illegal-downloading-in-governments-sights-as-online-copyright-infringement-discussion-paper-takes-aim-at-consumers-isps/story-fnjwneld-1227004467973) on how they plan to curb 'illegal' downloads is almost here. What I find interesting is that it appears to be a direct rip-off of the UK's proposed plan (http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2014/07/uk_government_effectively_decriminalises_download_ piracy_raising_importance_of_system_security) which was subsequently thrown out the window. Basically, in the UK, they have ruled that they cannot make the ISP's accountable which makes sense because if it were up to the ISP's, then they would have to pass the cost of policing this onto the consumer. I cannot see the 80% of people who do not engage with online piracy copping this on the chin.

Back here in Australia, the main sore point seems to be associated with Game of Thrones - the most downloaded show in history. Keen observers will also note that the main party flogging the governments agenda is News.com.au which is owned by News Corp Australia, which half-owns Foxtel, the company responsible for bringing Game of Thrones to our shores :rolleyes:

It will be interesting to see how this plays out from here but in all honesty, for those that download, I wouldn't hold your collective breaths just yet.

I don't want Foxtel just to watch Game of Thrones - It sucks! The only other alternative to watch the show when everyone else does is to download. If you wait too long, the Internet becomes a mine field of spoilers.

I buy the Blueray box set when it's released to contribute, couldn't be assed with FoxTel as is horrible and a rip off.

[Gutsman Heavy]

I buy the Blueray box set when it's released to contribute.

And this is why HBO don't care that we pirate that bloody show to hell. Piracy is only theoretical lost money, I'll never get foxtel, it's shit. So if I pirate GoT or not the net loss is the same for foxtel.

I assume they'll only be able to control torrents from public trackers, so Pass the Popcorn and the like will be safe to use anyway. They can't win.

[5FDP]

They think they can steer people towards Foxtel if downloading is no longer possible :rolleyes: I think they forget that before downloading, everyone was just ripping movies / shows hired from their local video store. The only difference between the two is that someone has already done it for you. Worst case scenario - I'll just stop watching these shows altogether. I'm not going to be force-fed their advertisements when paying for what's supposed to be a premium product.

One / Ten canned the NFL hoping that people would subscribe to Fox Sports. How did that work out for them ;) Hello Channel 7 and their new 5 year / free-to-air deal. That's what happens when companies get greedy.

[klystron]

Government anti-piracy "policies" are a case study in the 'follow the money' line of thinking. Basically, media companies refuse to rapidly move with the times and adopt new methods of monetizing their products. Sure, it is slowly starting to happen, but there is still a long way to go. (Eg: Think about how negatively the music industry used to view mp3. Now you can buy direct off itunes, telstra, or the artists site).
I have a T-Box which is a fantastic device as it allows you to watch new movies without leaving your coach. The $5 cost is added to your monthly bill. Yep, its $5 more than a free download, but it is a lot less hassle, and guaranteed good quality. This has actually lead to me d/l'ing less movies. Foxtel is available on the Tbox too. The channels are all there and streamed over the net (unmetered). So why can I not just pay to watch a GoT episode on HBO? Is it really that hard? Why do I have to get a monthly package, for 12 months? (Oh, the money thing again. $30/month times 12 = $360 divided by 10 GoT episodes = $36/episode. Yeah, I don't think so).
Media companies would rather force the govt to police the internet as they know there is no way that they can themselves.

Anyway what I really wanted to say was, from a computer POV, there is NO WAY that the government (or any other corporation or lobby group) can 'censor' the internet with the goal of preventing illegal downloads. There are simply too many ways around whatever restrictions are put in place. And many methods to hide your online activities.
Just look at TPB. And internet censorship in China.

I could on and on, but I won't. Internet censorship really, really pisses me off!


Disclaimer: The $36/ep thing is only an example. I really don't know any details on foxtel prices and packages.

[AJ_Prime]

TBH I can't see this happening.

Firstly, IInet won a case. You can't just overturn a legal case because the outcome didn't suit you. It undermines the entire justice system, as well as your party's reputation for even considering it.

Secondly, I highly doubt that ISP's will spend the money necessary to police internet activity on every one of their customers, set up systems to determine the content that is considered "illegal", send them warnings, shape them, whatever. It's simply too costly. To afford this setup they would have to charge their customers more, meaning a LOT of lost business.

Seriously, the main reason that Australia has one of the highest rates of internet piracy is simply because much of the content we want is not available in Australia, and when it is, IT'S LATE!! We've already read the spoilers on social media and international news websites. WTF?!

It's music to my ears to hear that Netflix are considering setting up in Australia. Cheap, unlimited content? Yes please!

[Trent]

You realise Gok that if Netflix sets up here, it won't have nearly as much content as it has in the US purely because the rights to a lot of content are already held by Foxtel and the like. It will be a very trimmed down version.

[Omega Metro]

You realise Gok that if Netflix sets up here, it won't have nearly as much content as it has in the US purely because the rights to a lot of content are already held by Foxtel and the like. It will be a very trimmed down version.

And it will be expensive. Just like every thing else here.;)

[5FDP]

True story - a couple of years ago, one of the directors of the ACMA contacted my work saying that his internet seemed to have slowed to a crawl. Upon investigating, it appeared as though he/she was capped due to excessive downloading every night for the past several weeks. As it turns out, his/her child had been scheduling torrents during the night and used up all the data in their plan. This is a kid of one of the head honchos running the ACMA. So before Malcolm Turnbull (http://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/digital-life-news/sue-mum-and-dad-pirates-malcolm-turnbull-tells-film-studios-20140801-zzbnj.html) starts running his mouth off about suing parents, maybe they should start by looking within ;)


You realise Gok that if Netflix sets up here, it won't have nearly as much content as it has in the US purely because the rights to a lot of content are already held by Foxtel and the like. It will be a very trimmed down version.


And it will be expensive. Just like every thing else here.;)

You are both right on this point.

[griffin]

You realise Gok that if Netflix sets up here, it won't have nearly as much content as it has in the US purely because the rights to a lot of content are already held by Foxtel and the like. It will be a very trimmed down version.

Too many politicians and their (business owner) friends have a stake in Foxtel... so it will be well protected from any competition to its monopoly.

One of the big problems is that they are treating Foxtel as the same broadcast medium as free-to-air TV or online streaming... when it should be treated as its own broadcast medium (like radio, FTA-TV, Internet, pay-TV, newspapers, magazines). Each has its own realm and competitors... and exclusive rights to that broadcast medium.
Foxtel should be competing against other Pay-TV companies (like cable channels compete in America), but due to the way that broadcast medium was set up by the Federal Government, and then created a domineering juggernaut in the communications field of phones and Pay-TV when they sold off Telstra, Foxtel soon became a monopoly to Pay-TV (and phones).
It shouldn't be a direct competitor to FTA-TV, or Internet streaming of content, just because they've now crushed all opposition in the Pay-TV realm. The point of Pay-TV is to watch the same programs without advertising... that's what you are paying directly for, instead of indirectly on FTA-TV by patronising the advertisers. If Pay-TV keeps expanding on their exclusive content to the point of it being the only source of all the hit shows and sports, they'll start treating it like regular TV and fill the thing with commercials because exclusive content will be the incentive to pay for a subscription. (they haven't promoted "commercial free" for a long time now anyway)

Each of the other broadcast mediums are treated as separate for content, ratings and exclusive programming deals, so Foxtel shouldn't be given exclusive rights over other broadcast mediums. Otherwise, we will see more problems and more corruption by politicians protecting their investments, and their family and friends' investments, by prioritising and protecting Foxtel.

[shokwave2]

And it will be expensive. Just like every thing else here.;)

Why not grab Netflix now like i have? I have access to both US and UK Netflix library and it costs me $13/month. We watch it via the Wii U in the lounge room, PS3 in the bedroom, and the kids watch it on their tablets wherever they want in the house. I've found myself downloading less since having Netflix.

[Gutsman Heavy]

Why not grab Netflix now like i have? I have access to both US and UK Netflix library and it costs me $13/month. We watch it via the Wii U in the lounge room, PS3 in the bedroom, and the kids watch it on their tablets wherever they want in the house. I've found myself downloading less since having Netflix.

Legit or region swapping shenanigans for the Wii U?

[shokwave2]

Create a separate profile, input country of residence as United Kingdom, download Netflix from UK eShop, sign up for Netflix (about $5/month) and Unblock-us.com ($8/month) and follow set-up instructions on Unblock-us.com http://support.unblock-us.com/customer/portal/articles/879957. Just watch through regular profile. It's all legit, no dodgy downloading or software.

[Omega Metro]

Why not grab Netflix now like i have? I have access to both US and UK Netflix library and it costs me $13/month. We watch it via the Wii U in the lounge room, PS3 in the bedroom, and the kids watch it on their tablets wherever they want in the house. I've found myself downloading less since having Netflix.

I seriously don't have the time to sit down and watch ANY TV show. Plus most are garbage anyway. (Games Of Thrones is overrated tripe....it's soooo boring!:confused:)
I'm happy to buy the blockbuster Blu-Ray movies and leave it at that.
And.... I would not know how to download a movie even if I tried.:D

[theshape]

They are going to piss off a lot of young voters just to keep foxtel rich. Hopefully there will be easy ways to buy pass their bs.

[shokwave2]

I seriously don't have the time to sit down and watch ANY TV show. Plus most are garbage anyway. (Games Of Thrones is overrated tripe....it's soooo boring!:confused:)
I'm happy to buy the blockbuster Blu-Ray movies and leave it at that.
And.... I would not know how to download a movie even if I tried.:D

The Netflix library consists of both TV shows and movies, old and new, fiction and documentary. Actually, i've noticed a few movies hitting Netflix while they're still showing in theatres here. Plus there's some awesome shows that are Netflix originals such as Derek starring Ricky Gervais and heaps of stand-up comedy shows not shown anywhere else. Theres's actually more content on there then there is on Foxtel, plus it's immediately watchable with no ads, no waiting around for whatever time for the show to start. Highly recommended. And i agree on Game of Thrones, turned off after 10 minutes.

[Dkaris]

The people losing out if these laws come in will be telcos. Why would anyone still pay for a 500gb internet plan each month when they cant use the bandwidth? people will downgrade their net plans and put the money into other tools such as VPN's which will still allow downloading etc.

tldr aus business will lose out because the government needs to make Rupert Murdoch a few more million

[5FDP]

I'd love to go with an option like Netflix but my home internet connection is rubbish. I don't get anywhere near the required minimum speeds for most internet streaming services.

[kup]

Too many politicians and their (business owner) friends have a stake in Foxtel... so it will be well protected from any competition to its monopoly.

One of the big problems is that they are treating Foxtel as the same broadcast medium as free-to-air TV or online streaming... when it should be treated as its own broadcast medium (like radio, FTA-TV, Internet, pay-TV, newspapers, magazines). Each has its own realm and competitors... and exclusive rights to that broadcast medium.
Foxtel should be competing against other Pay-TV companies (like cable channels compete in America), but due to the way that broadcast medium was set up by the Federal Government, and then created a domineering juggernaut in the communications field of phones and Pay-TV when they sold off Telstra, Foxtel soon became a monopoly to Pay-TV (and phones).
It shouldn't be a direct competitor to FTA-TV, or Internet streaming of content, just because they've now crushed all opposition in the Pay-TV realm. The point of Pay-TV is to watch the same programs without advertising... that's what you are paying directly for, instead of indirectly on FTA-TV by patronising the advertisers. If Pay-TV keeps expanding on their exclusive content to the point of it being the only source of all the hit shows and sports, they'll start treating it like regular TV and fill the thing with commercials because exclusive content will be the incentive to pay for a subscription. (they haven't promoted "commercial free" for a long time now anyway)

Each of the other broadcast mediums are treated as separate for content, ratings and exclusive programming deals, so Foxtel shouldn't be given exclusive rights over other broadcast mediums. Otherwise, we will see more problems and more corruption by politicians protecting their investments, and their family and friends' investments, by prioritising and protecting Foxtel.

Foxtel is actually filled with ads. As bad or worse than free to air. It is pretty terrible and not worth the hefty cost.

[griffin]

Foxtel is actually filled with ads. As bad or worse than free to air. It is pretty terrible and not worth the hefty cost.

That's unfortunate... so their marketing perspective now is to pay for exclusive access to programs now.
If they didn't have packages of channels, and allowed people to select and pay for just the individual channels they want, more people might be willing to sign up as they would see their subscription being better value (by not being made to pay for channels they don't watch).

[kup]

That's unfortunate... so their marketing perspective now is to pay for exclusive access to programs now.
If they didn't have packages of channels, and allowed people to select and pay for just the individual channels they want, more people might be willing to sign up as they would see their subscription being better value (by not being made to pay for channels they don't watch).

Most people that I know pay for Foxtel. Mostly because our free to air TV is so terrible. Channels like GO and Eleven had some decent stuff for a while but they quickly became just extensions of their parent channels terrible programming. A conspiracy theorist could argue that this is done so that Foxtel looks more appealing...

Even so, I have seen Foxtel in action for an extended period and the channels are filled with ads, show episodes constantly repeat and they seem only able to show the first few seasons of the Simpsons over and over again.

It is freaking terrible but a lot of people still have it because as bad as it may be, it is still better than Free to air.

I am personally not willing to spend $60-$100 a month for dodgy ass TV with ads so I won't. Too bad a lot of people do as I only know for sure of two people without it and one of them includes myself.

[millhouse]

I use Netflix. My girlfriend and I don't watch anything other than a) local news (because of our lines of employment) and b) she'll sometimes get sucked into a home-reno series.

Both our parents' have Foxtel, and there's been the occasional day of hanging out at one of the 'rents watching trashy reality while shaking off a hangover.

Personally, I'm not terribly worried about the censorship of the internet. Piracy will always find a way, and I refuse to support local content providers that are rubbish when we live in a global world.

[AJ_Prime]

Piracy will always find a way, and I refuse to support local content providers that are rubbish when we live in a global world.

You hit the nail on the head there.

[klystron]

+1

[Alpha Supreme]

Pure and simple it's about money and pleasing that Australian Overlord/Dictator Murdoch... it's sickening... he is also responsible for the truncated version of the NBN that this pathetic government is now peddling... once again money. Australia is being held back all for money/power.
I use Netflix and Hulu and pay no more than $20/month with unblock-us. By buying itunes vouchers when they are on special (there is an app to track that) I never pay full price.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Foxtel is actually filled with ads. As bad or worse than free to air. It is pretty terrible and not worth the hefty cost.

Wow, I thought the reason you paid was to avoid ads.

I watch the news and thats about it now. Rather have the TV turned off rather than sit down and watch all the crapola they call content.

[SMHFConvoy]

Wow, I thought the reason you paid was to avoid ads.

That was when they 1st launched. Sooo many years ago.

[Omega Metro]

No way I'd pay to watch ads. I can do that for free.:)
I used to watch a lot of SBS On Demand, 7, 10 shows on my iPad apps as they didn't have ads...........now they do.:mad:

[5FDP]

http://www.news.com.au/technology/online/court-ruling-on-whether-australian-isps-must-hand-over-customer-data-over-movie-downloads/story-fnjwneld-1227294106822

So... we're basically going to go back to hiring / ripping our own movies again like how it was 10 years ago. How are they going to stop that? :rolleyes: I make better encodes anyway ;) :D

[Trent]

http://www.news.com.au/technology/online/court-ruling-on-whether-australian-isps-must-hand-over-customer-data-over-movie-downloads/story-fnjwneld-1227294106822

So... we're basically going to go back to hiring / ripping our own movies again like how it was 10 years ago. How are they going to stop that? :rolleyes: I make better encodes anyway ;) :D

I remember those days. Hiring 12 hours worth of DVDs on "cheap Tuesday" and returning them 4 hours later.

I got a few looks ;)

[GoktimusPrime]

I wouldn't mind if they blocked game requests on FB. Just sayin'. :p

[Trailer Park Ninja]

The decision by the Federal Court on the Dallas Buyers Club case shits me on so many levels. And no it's not just because they are cracking down on online piracy.

The fact that since this government has come into power, it's done nothing for the people that it is supposed to be working for. Instead they kowtow to the big multinationals to do their bidding yet don't enforce their obligations to the Australian society and economy.

The first thing on the agenda is to cut everything in the budget to hit the less fortunate of society and others working hard to make it by.

They have done nothing to create jobs but rather the opposite insisting "everyone has to do the heavy lifting". Wow, the pollies took a temporary wage freeze while everyone else will be getting nothing for the next few years. Oh and we must crack down on penalty rates too, can't have the average Joe and Jane scrapping by and shirking their responsibility to lift this country out of debt and cutting into business profit.

The big agenda item seems to be trying to control the internet for their boss Mr Murdoch trying to protect his revenue for an outdated business model called Foxtel. Well mate, with the influx of streaming companies such as Presto, Stan and Netflix coupled with ISP's offering free data for these companies, regardless of what measures to stop piracy, people will go to a service that provides them what they want at a reasonable price for a better product and when they want it.

Yet companies like Newscorp, Google, Apple etc dodge their tax obligations by shifting monies out through their tax haven arrangements with Ireland etc. Last week it was reported $11 billion was shift out of the country.

So because our government is a toothless dog with no backbone and doing nothing about enforcing and recovering tax monies owed to this country, they will just have to stick it to us by increasing the tax brackets and the GST tax as part of a recent White Paper study.

And what about house affordability being at all-time low? Do they crack down on the real estate cowboys of the industry or the dodgy Golden Visa scam?

It just seems this government does nothing for their citizens yet everything for the big end of town.

Ordinary people are doing it tough as it is, yet life seems to be getting harder, more stressful etc. Some days I feel I'm being taxed out of the country.

/End of rant - sorry I had to vent, feel better now :)

[griffin]

I remember those days. Hiring 12 hours worth of DVDs on "cheap Tuesday" and returning them 4 hours later.

I got a few looks ;)

At least the people who spent time and money producing the movies actually got some money out of it, from the rentals.
We all know that people would tape shows or copy Video Tapes/DVDs from other people or from rental places, but those were a fraction of the copies being made now... so at least before internet piracy, 1 or 2 copies were made from purchased copies, so more money per duplicate was going to the people who own the material. Now, there are thousands and millions of copies being made and shared from a purchased copy (and from hacked copies), meaning the owners get one sale per thousand-plus viewers instead of one sale per 2-3 viewers.


http://www.news.com.au/technology/online/court-ruling-on-whether-australian-isps-must-hand-over-customer-data-over-movie-downloads/story-fnjwneld-1227294106822

So... we're basically going to go back to hiring / ripping our own movies again like how it was 10 years ago. How are they going to stop that? :rolleyes: I make better encodes anyway ;) :D

And that level of individual copying (and limited mass copying & sale of physical copies) is something that they don't care as much about because it involves a LOT more legal purchases per copy than digital downloads do. It's a bit like shoplifting - stores know that they will never completely stop it without spending more money than they'd save, so they take measures to prevent wholesale stealing by everyone, and then just factor in the small amount of losses into their prices.

After working with a number of people over the years who have been notorious free-loaders among their friends and relatives, I've never been a fan of free-loading. If there are options available to pay for something, I believe people should earn what they get... not get something as a handout or by actively avoiding to pay for it. That's like getting a $20 toy from a store for $1 by sticking a different barcode over, just because you think the big, nasty, soulless corporation makes too much money. But two wrongs don't make it right to justify it. We can survive without material possessions, so there is never a justification to avoid paying for something you don't need for your own survival.

I personally spend many many hours AND dollars running this site, so when I see people using it's resources for free without contributing anything in return (like interaction, info or sightings), it bugs me... but it would bug me more if this was a website that I was earning my living from, through subscription or advertising. It's the same with these music and TV/Movie producers, in that there are thousands of people behind the scenes involved in each project that are earning a living from it (just look at the list of credits at the end of a movie), but they only have a job if people pay for it. If too many people don't pay for it, then there are a lot of people on the production side that are out of a job, and since there is no face to the consequences to digital theft, people would rather focus on an associated mega-corporation that is tied to the project.

As a story writer, if I eventually have books published and people were downloading them without paying for it, I'd do the same as the "Dallas Buyers Club" movie producers... in that I'd be pursuing those people who are reading my books from unauthorised sources. And if the internet service providers have records of those people because they were the middle-men, it would be no different than asking the internet service providers to list who has been interacting on a paedophilia site.

:mad: /end rant. :o

[griffin]

The decision by the Federal Court on the Dallas Buyers Club case shits me on so many levels. And no it's not just because they are cracking down on online piracy.

The fact that since this government has come into power, it's done nothing for the people that it is supposed to be working for. Instead they kowtow to the big multinationals to do their bidding yet don't enforce their obligations to the Australian society and economy.

The first thing on the agenda is to cut everything in the budget to hit the less fortunate of society and others working hard to make it by.

They have done nothing to create jobs but rather the opposite insisting "everyone has to do the heavy lifting". Wow, the pollies took a temporary wage freeze while everyone else will be getting nothing for the next few years. Oh and we must crack down on penalty rates too, can't have the average Joe and Jane scrapping by and shirking their responsibility to lift this country out of debt and cutting into business profit.

The big agenda item seems to be trying to control the internet for their boss Mr Murdoch trying to protect his revenue for an outdated business model called Foxtel. Well mate, with the influx of streaming companies such as Presto, Stan and Netflix coupled with ISP's offering free data for these companies, regardless of what measures to stop piracy, people will go to a service that provides them what they want at a reasonable price for a better product and when they want it.

Yet companies like Newscorp, Google, Apple etc dodge their tax obligations by shifting monies out through their tax haven arrangements with Ireland etc. Last week it was reported $11 billion was shift out of the country.

So because our government is a toothless dog with no backbone and doing nothing about enforcing and recovering tax monies owed to this country, they will just have to stick it to us by increasing the tax brackets and the GST tax as part of a recent White Paper study.

And what about house affordability being at all-time low? Do they crack down on the real estate cowboys of the industry or the dodgy Golden Visa scam?

It just seems this government does nothing for their citizens yet everything for the big end of town.

Ordinary people are doing it tough as it is, yet life seems to be getting harder, more stressful etc. Some days I feel I'm being taxed out of the country.

/End of rant - sorry I had to vent, feel better now :)

Yes... we need serious economic and tax reform, for all people, not just the mega rich (laws are created with the politicians and their financial backers in mind). But both major parties are more focused on each other than on the needs of the people, so everything gets blocked in the Federal Senate and criticised by the media, regardless of if it is a bad policy or a good policy. Which has meant a stalling of the economy in the last eight years, because it is more important to buy votes with things we want (like handouts), than giving us what we need by making the hard decisions and serious reforms.
The world and its economy is evolving all the time, so policy and reforms need to be ongoing to keep up, but just like in the early 70s, Australia has stalled since 2007, to the point of having New Zealand now considered a stronger economy than ours.