THE PROPOSED MANDATORY INTERNET FILTER, talked up by the Australian Government to protect children online, is now delving into freedom of speech.

After a user under the alias of of xFOADx wrote on online forum Whirlpool this evening….

“1 email to ACMA and a completely random page belonging to an anti-abortion site and here is their response,”

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Subject: Complaint Reference: 2009000009/ ACMA-691604278
Date: Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:45:00 +1100
From: online@acma.gov.au

“Complaint Reference: 2009000009/ ACMA-691604278

I refer to the complaint that you lodged with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) on 5th January 2009 about certain content made available at:

[Link removed to protect us from being sued]

Following investigation of your complaint, ACMA is satisfied that the internet content is hosted outside Australia, and that the content is prohibited or potential prohibited content.

The Internet Industry Association (IIA) has a code of practice (http://www.iia.net.au/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=415&Itemid=33) for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) which, among other things, set out arrangements for dealing with such content. In accordance with the code, ACMA has notified the above content to the makers of IIA approved filters, for their attention and appropriate action. The code requires ISPs to make available to customers an IIA approved filter.

Information about ACMA’s role in regulating online content (including internet and mobile content), including what is prohibited or potentially prohibited content is available at ACMA’s website at www.acma.gov.au/hotline

Thank you for bringing this matter to ACMA’s attention.”

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What does this mean exactly? It means that if the Government decide to implement their idea of a mandatory filter, controversial content such as abortion, will be banned!

“This mandatory filter can’t be allowed to happen. It is pure censorship and censorship only.” xFOADx told users.