ACS Oks NetAlert

The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has applauded the Federal Government’s $189 million NetAlert’s Protecting Australian Families Online program, which addresses many of the online concerns that the ACS has advocated over the past decade.

Philip Argy, president of the ACS, the professional body for the ICT sector, welcomed the resources being devoted to education and training under the program, noting the limitations of current technology in protecting users.

“The ACS applauds the Government’s world leading programme to protect Australian families online. This is a key issue we have been discussing with industry and Governments for more than 10 years, including providing expert evidence to the Australian Broadcasting Authority for its early enquiry into Online Content Regulation,” he said.

Argy said given the ongoing challenges of establishing a technology-based system of protection, the ACS has consistently advocated that parents raise their children to be aware that inappropriate content can exist online.

“This gives children an opportunity to develop mature and robust attitudes and responses to help minimise any adverse effects. We welcome the $22 million devoted by the Government to fund public awareness and education campaigns, since education and training are key to improving the online intelligence of Australian families,” added Argy.