Senator Ron Boswell, Leader of The Nationals in the Senate, today joined Federal Communications Minister, Senator Helen Coonan, and Parent Ambassador, Kieran Perkins, to launch the Coalition Government’s NetAlert – Protecting Australian Families Online package in Queensland. The launch was hosted by Brisbane Seniors Online, and highlighted the role of grandparents in guiding children and protecting them from internet predators and offensive material online. Senator Boswell, the Coalition Government’s Queensland Internet Safety Ambassador, said that NetAlert was a $189 million package and included an information campaign, an advice service and the $84.8 million National Filter Scheme which would allow families to access PC or ISP-based filters to block out websites which were earmarked by ACMA as unsuitable or offensive. “It is appropriate that we are launching the NetAlert programme here in Queensland during Child Protection Week because it is aimed at better protecting Australian children from predatory behaviour online, pornography, and other offensive online activities and material,” Senator Boswell said. “The Government recognises that no internet protection is absolutely fool-proof, and that family supervision, including guidance from grandparents where appropriate, has a major role to play. However, the filters and services we are providing should be seen as a useful tool to assist families in providing the best protection possible. “Those firms chosen to produce and administer internet filters will be required to keep their products up to date and do their best to stop people who try to circumvent the system,” Senator Boswell said. “Free PC-based filters have been available for families to download from www.netalert.gov.au since the 20th of August, and families can order and receive a filter on CD ROM in the mail if they choose to do it this way.   “Under the National Filter Scheme, all ISPs will be required to offer a filtered internet service for families who prefer this protection option, with a new system to be implemented following a joint government and industry feasibility study, and input from a trial of filtering underway in Tasmania. “As part of this package, the government has decided not only to make filtering products available for every Australian family, but also to encourage free filters to be put in place in all public libraries.” ENDS Media contact – 3001 8150 or 0428 714 779