Information about free internet content filters
The Australian Government is providing a range of options to help you tailor your online protection to suit your family's needs. These measures include:
- a choice of internet content filters that you can download and install on your computer or order on CD-ROM and install on your computer
- internet content filters with adjustable settings; so you can create individual user profiles and choose the amount and types of content you want each user to avoid
- some internet content filters that provide reports on internet use, that may help you set the rules for your families internet use.
- What can an internet content filter do for my family?
- What internet content filters are available?
- How do I choose a filter?
- Can I get technical help or support?
What can an internet content filter do for my family?
Internet content filters can help you manage your family’s online environment to provide a safe and enjoyable online experience. Installing an internet content filter reduces the risk of your family coming into contact with something upsetting or dangerous online. Internet content filters offer a range of different functions to help block, screen and monitor unwelcome material.
However, they do not offer total protection and work most effectively in association with a range of strategies to stay safe online.
Unfortunately, there is no single action or internet content filter that does everything and it is not possible to have two or more filters installed on your computer at the same time. At present, internet content filter technology is still being developed for use with mobile phones.
Internet content filters will not block all offensive content or provide internet security for your computer. Internet content filters will not check for computer viruses or provide a firewall that keeps out unwanted viruses or programs.
What internet content filters are available?
The Australian Government has undertaken a detailed assessment process to provide Australian households with access to the best available filters through the National Filter Scheme.
The Australian Government does not endorse any particular online content filter. You should read all information, instructions and advice on online content filters carefully.
Adjusting the settings, type of content 'allowed' or 'not allowed' for access or viewing, and how the content is blocked, will vary from filter to filter.
How do I choose an internet content filter?
A comparison table is available to help you review the range of free internet content filters to assist you to choose the filter that meets your needs. You can get a free filter by downloading your chosen internet content filter direct to your computer or ordering one to be sent to you on CD-ROM.
Can I get technical help or support?
You will be provided with instructions for the internet content filter you choose from this website. These instructions will be provided by the internet content filter supplier.
Free ongoing technical support, including telephone support from your chosen filter supplier, is available. If you need help, please call us on 1800 880 176. (8am - 10pm in your local time zone, for callers in Australia only. Free call for landline calls, usual charges apply to mobiles and payphones.)