Mike B

While I welcome any moves by the government to increase the ability and opportunity for citizens to have a voice in policy, surely that already exists and has proven ineffective in shifting governmental policy. Are we to expect that commments, lodged here amidst of teh warmth of an online blog, are to be regarded with any greater consideration than the emails, calls, petitions and existing blogs that have shown considerable opposition to many of the government's current approaches to online policy. While we maintain a nominal representative democracy, clearly our representation accounts for less than the necessity of governments to support those who have provided the necessary leverage to find themselves in power. While I find it encouraging to believe the government might begin to consider forums through which a dialogue can ensue, I hold little hope that previous opinion, expressed in this forum, will carry any additional weight than that which has been presented via other means. Australian's don't protest in the streets about many things - but such things are being organised ... and the minister asks for our thoughts on policy via a blog? I believe you already understand the views on this matter. Perhaps the government might like to begin afresh with some problems for which solutions might be offered. As it is we have been given a solution and told what the problem to which it will be applied. If you wish to appaer consultative its best to do so before you have mandated a solution.