Internet Industry Association

The Internet Industry Association (IIA) announced its new code of practice for online and mobile service content providers effective 16 July 2008.

Following a 30-day public consultation, the Australian Communications and Media Authority, (ACMA) the industry regulator, has reviewed and approved it as a code of industry practice to oversee, monitor and enforce.

A copy of the registered code is available at:

http://www.iia.net.au/images/resources/pdf/content_services_code_registration_version_1.0.pdf

"The Code is a big step forward for Australians," IIA's chief executive, Mr Coroneos, said.

"It provides a way for locally-based commercial content service providers and live content service providers to ensure that potentially restricted commercial stored content services or live content provided by commercial content services now comply with Australian classification schemes."

The new Code promotes safer online experiences for the community (particularly children) through workable industry regulation. It will support the local content provider industry with clear guidelines in line with internationally accepted practices.

In particular, the new Code provides industry with guidance on -

• handling complaints (Part C),
• taking-down notified content or content services (Part D )
• promoting online safety for Australian families (Part E)
• implementing restricted access systems for some content services (Part F); and
• regulating certain chat services (Part G).

Further information about content regulation is available from the ACMA website at www.acma.gov.au .

Self Regulation code for Internet Content per Schedule 5 of BSA

In matters concerning codes for industry self-regulation in areas of internet content pursuant to the requirements of the Broadcasting Services Act 1992 as amended 9 May 2005, version 10.4 are found here or go to http://iia.net.au/images/resources/pdf/iia_code_2005.pdf

About the IIA

The Internet Industry Association (www.iia.net.au ) represents the main net providers, content creators and associated services. It issues policy guidance to government and advocacy on business and regulatory issues, to promote laws and initiatives that enhance access, equity, reliability and growth of the Net within Australia.

For comment, contact

Peter Coroneos, Chief Executive, IIA
Ph: 02 6232 6900
Release Date: Wednesday 16 July 2008