The Abbott government is considering a crackdown on online piracy, including forcing internet service providers to block websites that allow users to illegally stream or download movies, music and TV shows.

Attorney-General George Brandis flagged the government may also implement a ''graduated response scheme'' to force internet service providers to suspend the accounts of users who ignore notifications to stop downloading illegal content.

He said the growth of the internet should not be allowed to erode the principles of copyright law.

''The government will be considering possible mechanisms to provide a legal incentive for an internet service provider to co-operate with copyright owners in preventing infringement on their systems and networks,'' Senator Brandis told the Australian Digital Alliance forum on Friday.

''This may include looking carefully at the merits of a scheme whereby ISPs are required to issue graduated warnings to consumers who are using websites to facilitate piracy.''