040/06
11 May 2006

.xxx proposal stopped

The Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan, today welcomed the decision by the international Internet domain name body, ICANN, to block the establishment of a .xxx domain for adult content.

“This is a positive outcome that has prevented the creation of a domain that could have acted as a haven for illegal and offensive content,” Senator Coonan said.

“The Australian Government had previously expressed our opposition to the creation of a .xxx domain through representations made to ICANN’s Governmental Advisory Committee by my Department.

“The Australian Government had grave concerns about the .xxx proposal, stating strong objection to any measure that would lead to an increase in pornography on the Internet, push offensive content on vulnerable groups or create a haven for illegal material.

“ICANN’s decision is also a reassurance that this body, responsible for overseeing the administration of domains at a global level, has robust decision-making processes that take account of stakeholders’ input.

“The ability for stakeholders, including Governments, to provide public policy input into the decision-making process is a strength of the ICANN model.

“Australia’s involvement in international discussions surrounding the .xxx proposal has been consistent with the Government’s long standing interest in ensuring that Australians using the Internet are able to do so in a safe and secure way.”

The Australian Online Content Scheme was established in 2000, banning X and RC rated content from being hosted in Australia and establishing a complaints-based mechanism under Schedule 5 in the Broadcasting Services Act 1992.

Internet Service Providers and Internet Content Hosts are also regulated through enforceable industry codes of practice that are developed by the Internet Industry Association and registered by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

An audit of the top ISPs conducted by ACMA at the Minister’s request and released today showed high levels of compliance with current industry codes.

“The Government is serious about cracking down on illegal and offensive material on the Internet and I am looking at ways in which we can continue to help families, children and consumers have a safer Internet experience,” Senator Coonan said.