Sam Douglas

Blogs are many and varied, so it's hard to say what the key elements actually are. I don't read or consult other government blogs. But the blogs I do read and consult have high value for me in terms of either engagement in debate or the provision of useful information (preferably both). While it might not be possible to engage in debate with those posting comments in the way that individual bloggers can, I would encourage practices that come as close as possible to this. The ability to respond to a political opinion or argument in a post and continue the discussion with the author is one of the best things about blogging for everyone involved. I think that the frustration people are expressing is at least partially borne out of this. As you well note, many people are not happy about the ISP level filtering plans. What they want is a chance to engage in debate with those responsible in as direct a way as possible. Do not try too hard to steer the conversation away from filtering. How the Government blogs might well be important. But many people see the advent of ISP level filtering as a serious threat to personal liberty and democratic values (myself included). I would ask that you forgive people for thinking that this is more important than the layout of this blog. The most important thing about this blog remains to be seen, and it is this: How will the Government respond to the feedback we are giving it? If our comments, opinions and arguments have no effect on policy, then all this talk is for nothing and the failure of this blog will reflect the larger failure of Australian Democracy. Sincerely, Sam D