THE coalition plans to filter the internet.

In a policy hidden on page 7 of a document entitled "The Coalition's Policy to Enhance Online Safety for Children", the Coalition has said it will adopt the UK-style policy of internet filtering.

That means households would automatically have adult content filters applied on their internet and phone services, but would have to opt out if they want the unfiltered version of the net.

UPDATE: Joe Hockey stumped by internet filter

"The Coalition believes that keeping children safe online is ultimately the responsibility of parents and others charged with the welfare of children - but they need better support from government and industry," the document says.

"We will work with mobile phone companies (such as Telstra, Optus, Vodafone and their resellers) to develop online safety standards for smartphones and other devices with mobile network connectivity such as tablets, applicable to their use by children in two age groups: children up to the age of 12 years and teenagers."

"As has recently been achieved in the UK, we expect these standards will involve mobile phone operators installing adult content filters on phones which will be switched on as the default unless the customer proves he or she is at least 18 years of age."

The document goes on to explain that its approach is very different to what it calls the "discredited" compulsory filter proposal championed by the Rudd-Gillard Government, which was abandoned as unworkable.

"The Coalition's approach aims to empower parents - by giving them the choice of whether or not to operate a filter at home, but by establishing the default setting as one which provides maximum protection."

The lack of publicity of the policy is perhaps unsurprising, given many people oppose any censorship of the internet whatsoever.

###