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National Industry Body applauds Government Empowerment Scheme the Internet Industry Association (IIA) today welcomed the Federal Government's historic funding announcement regarding internet filters for Australian families and public libraries and support for the community advisory body, NetAlert.

IIA chief executive, Peter Coroneos said that the new initiative built on an already sophisticated system of child internet protection operating in Australia under enforceable industry codes of practice and the IIA's Family Friendly internet scheme.

'Without doubt, this commitment puts Australia at the forefront of online child safety anywhere - by a country mile. This will be recognised internationally as the most advanced system of family protection on offer to citizens anywhere in the world.'

'The free filters and public awareness campaign, when combined with industry support, mean there is now absolutely no reason why any child in Australia should be exposed to unsuitable content online.'

Mr Coroneos added: 'This scheme should put paid to any residual community concerns about children accessing inappropriate material while on the internet.'

'We agree with the Government's conclusion that there is no one-size-fitsall solution to child safety. New generation filters allow each family to easily customise its own settings according to the age of children and their own values.'

'Today's filters put the control where it belongs, into the hands of parents. Filters are simple to install and use, and effective. Nowadays, many not
only cover web content, but can also help manage chat sessions and email.'

'While there is never going to be a substitute for adult supervision, particularly for young children, filters can make the job a lot easier - while still allowing children to enjoy the enormous benefits that the internet offers.'

'We congratulate the Government for this substantial commitment to online child safety and pledge industry's support to work with them to maximise the benefits to all Australian internet users,' said Mr Coroneos.