Communications Minister Stephen Conroy's announcement of a review of the Refused Classification category prior to introducing a mandatory internet filter is an acknowledgement of the deep flaws in the proposal, the Australian Greens say.

"The review of the open-ended and controversial RC category, along with enhanced transparency and accountability measures represent the first signs of acknowledgement that critics of the filter have a point," said Greens Senator Scott Ludlam.

"The fact remains though, the Government still intends to legislate for a mandatory net censorship scheme, and these measures are seeking to take the heat out of the debate to keep this vastly unpopular scheme from boiling over during the election campaign."

"Ultimately those seeking banned material will simply bypass the filter, and those at risk of inadvertent access would be far better served by a free and more comprehensive PC-based filtering solution.

"But today, opponents of the filter should pause to reflect on a partial win. It may have seemed as though the Minister hadn't heard a word we have said for the past two years, but some of it is obviously getting through," Senator Ludlam said.

Media Advisor: Fernando de Freitas 0417 174 302