Internet Industry Association N E W S R E L E A S E 21 July 2000 For Immediate Release IIA Responds to Minister Announcement on Streaming Internet Content The IIA has responded to Communications Minister Richard Alston's statement today that he does not intend to treat internet streamed content as broadcasting. IIA executive director, Peter Coroneos said "The review has concluded within the timeframe that we considered appropriate in the circumstances. However, until the decision has been given legal effect, the position of our members will remain uncertain. We urge the Minister to take all necessary legal steps to exempt internet streaming from the definition of 'broadcasting services' as he appears empowered to do under the existing legislation. In addition, we will be seeking legislative amendment to cement the decision into law, so that it cannot be undone at any future time without full parliamentary scrutiny." Mr Coroneos added, "Our next step will be to push for a full and complete overhaul of this hopelessly antiquated [Broadcasting Services] Act. In an era of convergent technologies, it is unbelievable that we have to operate under a regulatory regime that pretends that you can draw lines to separate one form of content from another - based purely on mode of delivery." "If we are serious about becoming a truly global player, developing a high value skills base, fostering innovation, providing unprecedented choice for all Australians and conquering the digital divide, then nothing but a complete paradigm shift in the way we view communications will do." --- More The Minister's statement included the following text: "Proposed section 216E of the Broadcasting Services Act to be inserted by the digital television legislation recently considered by the Parliament requires the Minister to "cause to be conducted a review of whether, in the context of converging media technologies, streamed audio and video content obtainable over the internet should be regarded as a broadcasting service." "A review has now been completed and the Government has decided that Internet audio and video streaming should not be regarded as a broadcasting service..." "The Government will now consider whether any further action is necessary to give effect to this position and to clarify any legal uncertainties under the Act." Ends --- For further comment contact: Mr Peter Coroneos Executive Director Internet Industry Association (IIA) Phone: +61 2 6232 6900 (for TTY callers, please call 133 677 and ask for 6232 6900) PO Box 3986 MANUKA ACT AUSTRALIA 2603 http://www.iia.net.au
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