New South Australian Law Censors Online Anonymous Political Comment

A new south Australian law has been established. This law will prohibit bloggers and commenters from making political comments without leaving their name and number. If this law isn't obeyed, they will face up to $1,250 (AUS) worth of fines.

AdelaideNow, a site that allows forum discussion, is caught in the crossfire of this law. The website published an editorial article on Tuesday morning which stated:

"It's hard to imagine South Australia's Electoral Commissioner will prowl the Internet day after day during the election campaign policing such a ridiculous law," said the paper. "Realistically and logically, there is no need. All blogs and comments published on AdelaideNow are moderated. Broadcasters monitor and moderate what is broadcast. All also abide by extensive laws that prevent the publication or broadcast of defamatory and other illegal material."

This new South Australian law is quite discriminatory, and seems unnecessary.

Learn more about this issue here.