PROTECTING CONSUMERS AGAINST ILLEGAL OR OFFENSIVE CONTENT ON MOBILES

15 July 2004
109/04

Public comment is invited as part of a review into the handling of illegal or offensive content on mobile telephones and other mobile devices.

I have directed the Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts to conduct this review in response to findings in the Review of the Online Content Scheme. This review highlighted the rapid technological developments in mobile devices and emphasised the need to ensure ongoing protection of children from inappropriate or offensive content.

Pending the results of this new review, I have already directed the Australian Communications Authority (ACA) to regulate access to content provided on new premium services delivered over mobiles.

This included putting in place access controls for adult content delivered on the new premium rate services and on proprietary networks operated by carriers. These controls will restrict access by children to content that is unsuitable for them.

The Government acknowledges the considerable social and economic benefits that new communication services will bring.

The review announced today will help inform the Government's longer term approach to the regulation of audiovisual content on mobile devices, including mobile phones.

When considering consumer protection measures, the Government will look at their impact on the development and commercial success of new services. The review will also examine the application of existing regulatory measures to new and emerging services and services not previously available through mobile communication tools.

The discussion paper and the terms of reference are available from the 'consultation' link at www.dcita.gov.au.

The closing date for submissions is Friday 3 September 2004.


Media Contact: Jane Seaborn (02) 6277 7480 or 0439 425 373