The australian government internet filter: Its scope, and its potential civil liberties implications

In this article, we examine the structural elements of the Australian Government's filter policy as it has evolved over time, paying particular attention to the scope of the proposal, and the possible civil liberties implications of the proposal as it is presently formulated. More precisely, we argue that, by anchoring the proposal in the RC classification scheme, the filter will block far more than illegal material and, as a consequence, there is cause to be worried that a censorship regime is being created, as opposed to a system to protect children. We also explore the significance of civil liberties in the context of a liberal democracy and demonstrate the value they bring to Australia and show how freedom of speech, expression and information are not properly protected under Australia's Constitutional Framework creating consequences for established democratic freedoms in Australian society if the present ISP policy is to be implemented.