Senator Coonan agrees on funding, gives the nod for Adware guidelines

ICT Minister Helen Coonan has announced the signing of a five year $249.5 million funding agreement with NICTA. She has also welcomed a proposed collaboration to develop guidelines for the use of Adware.

According to Senator Coonan during the 10-year period to 30 June 2011, the Australian Government will provide $380 million to the National ICT Australia (NICTA) as part of its $8.3 billion Backing Australia’s Ability policy.

“NICTA’s research has practical applications in a broad range of industries, wealth creation and benefits,” she said.

Senator Coonan also welcomed the Australian Direct Marketing Association (ADMA) and the Internet Industry Association’s (IIA) proposed collaboration to develop guidelines for the use of Adware.

According to Coonan there was no universally accepted definition of ‘Adware’ and it was generally referred to as, “software which can deliver information and advertising to users. It can also provide information to website owners about user preferences and help target advertising to meet a user’s likely interests; and personalise the user’s online experience,” she said.