THE abolition of plans to filter the internet has met little resistance, with the opposition and Greens wishing the policy good riddance and the industry rejoicing.

After five years the Communications Minister, Stephen Conroy, announced the government had dropped the policy, which would have blocked sites blacklisted by the Australian Communications and Media Authority.

"This was always a bad idea" ... Shadow Minister for Communications Malcolm Turnbull. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

These sites would have ranged from child abuse to bestiality, detailed instruction in crime, violence or drug use, and material that advocates terrorist activity. Instead, the government will use the existing Telecommunications Act to instruct internet service providers to block 1400 known child abuse sites.

The policy was an election promise in 2007 by Kevin Rudd.