The Opposition has announced its alternative to the mandatory internet filter as the Government faces growing criticism over its plan.

Labor announced its filter plan two years ago as part of its cyber safety program to protect children from pornography and offensive material.

Today the Coalition announced it would ditch the filter and instead spend $60 million on providing internet-filtering technology free to families.

Last week, the Coalition for the first time confirmed its opposition to the filter, which would see websites containing "refused classification" content blocked.

At a communications debate at the National Press Club in Canberra today, the Coalition took another opportunity to have a go at the filter.

"We didn't implement a mandatory ISP filter in government because we didn't feel it was workable, effective or practical," opposition communications spokesman Tony Smith said.

"We will instead provide funding of $60 million to reintroduce free PC-based content filtering software to Australian families who want it.

"We don't say PC-filters are foolproof, but they do offer a more comprehensive and more flexible solution.

The Coalition will also commit $30 million for expanding cyber safety programs.

Critics claim the proposed filter will slow download speeds and lead to unwarranted censorship, but Communications Minister Stephen Conroy is determined to push on with the plan.

"This argument that unless it's 100 per cent successful you should not proceed with it is one of the phoniest arguments," he said.

"We don't abandon drink-driving laws, we don't abandon speeding laws, we don't abandon underage drinking or underage smoking laws because 100 per cent of Australians don't comply with them."

Last month the Government announced an independent review of its filter policy, which could take up to a year.