Page 517 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 19 March 2014
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MR BARR: It is fairly standard for these sorts of networks to have a user agreement and acceptance before entering into the network. That will outline all of the requirements and obligations that go with use of the network and can provide information in relation to safeguards. It is important to note, though, in the context of Mr Doszpot’s earlier question, that for anyone who accesses a free wi-fi network, whether it is provided by a government or by a business, whether you are accessing it at your local McDonald’s, at the Canberra Airport or a variety of other places where there is a free wi-fi service available, there are security implications associated with that and people enter into those on a day-to-day basis when they join those networks. That is not unusual. I think people can come to terms with that. They have been, and are doing so, in other cities and in other parts of this city at the moment.
MR DOSZPOT: Supplementary.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Doszpot.
MR DOSZPOT: Minister, how will you ensure that this service will not be used for any illegal or inappropriate activity in these public places?
MR BARR: Aside from the temptation to keep certain people off the network, there are, of course, provisions in place in relation to the vendor, the provider of the service, just as there are for every other free wi-fi service that is available within this city, this country and indeed around the world. There are provisions in place in relation to internet security for those who have a particular worry in relation to national security matters and otherwise. I think we have a fairly well-resourced network within this city of government agencies and otherwise who closely monitor for illegal and criminal activity that occurs online.
Mr Hanson: What about inappropriate?
MR BARR: Inappropriate? One could argue that every time the leader of the opposition enters into the social media sphere, Madam Speaker, that could indeed be inappropriate. But I would not dream of making such an accusation.
MADAM SPEAKER: I think you already did, Mr Barr.
Economy—north Canberra infrastructure
MS PORTER: My question is to the Minister for Economic Development. Minister, could you outline the steps the government has taken to provide services, infrastructure and economic growth in north Canberra?
MR BARR: I thank Ms Porter for the question. There is no doubt that infrastructure is a critical element in determining how our local communities grow and develop. It certainly underpins a strong and robust economy and allows for the efficient delivery of essential services. The government has a longstanding commitment to and a very strong record of investing in high-quality, efficient and effective infrastructure for the territory in line with a long-term vision for the development of our city.
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