Dear Melbourne Wireless,<br><br>I'm sure that you've heard about the
government plan to filter all internet traffic, primarily in order to
help prevent access to illegal and unwanted websites by minors. I am
aware that you are probably opposed to the current proposal, and you
may even be attending the rally this Saturday at the State Library from
12pm until 5pm. As your president elect, it is my duty to be the voice
of the group as
a whole - which is why I have accepted an offer by rally coordinators
to
be "up the front" talking to the crowds (and media) at the rally this
Saturday. It is such an important issue for Melbourne Wireless that it
would be remiss of me not to accept such an offer.<br><br>Instead
of "preaching to the converted" this Saturday, I will be focusing my
efforts at persuading the general public to support our views through
comments directed at gaining media attention and subsequent coverage on
the evening news. Furthermore, I shall not be "attacking" the
government, and will not tolerate any members doing so during this
debate. I wish to offer the government a chance to "save face" by
presenting a set of viable alternatives, instead of engaging in a
political slanging match. The viable alternatives need to be supplied
by people like you.<br>
<br>I need to hear from you regarding this important issue - your
thoughts and ideas as to what I should be saying on behalf of Melbourne
Wireless
regarding the various related sub-issues surrounding this whole
debate. More than just "I am opposed to the current plan", but why you
are opposed and what alternatives can be offered in contrast to the
current government proposal. I need to hear your thoughts on this
matter ASAP!<br>
<br>
Distinct issues I'd like to hear about include:<br> * Internet filtering for minors.<br> * Internet filtering for adults.<br> * Opt-in compared against opt-out.<br> * Self regulation by Internet Service Providers.<br>
* Censorship of other mediums (eg: TV, magazines).<br> * Unwanted versus illegal content.<br> * Transparency of filter management.<br> * Feasibility of various filtering mechanisms.<br> * Effectiveness of various filtering mechanisms.<br>
* Efficiency of various filtering mechanisms.<br> * Economic effects of filtering.<br> * Consumer demand for filtering solutions.<br> * Government duty of care to protect minors.<br><br>As
you can see, there are many issues surrounding this debate, I'm sure
you can think of many more as well. Please reply immediately with
your thoughts, comments and ideas so they may be expressed to the world
as official Melbourne Wireless policy this Saturday.<br>
<br>Sincerely yours,<br>Tyson Clugg.<br>President, Melbourne Wireless.