In a move that may suggest greater use of Web 2.0 tools by the Federal Government, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has begun blogging.
The blog according to the PM’s site, is an opportunity for the community to provide comments and engage with each other in relation to the policy initiatives under discussion.
“Like Community Cabinet, it is a mechanism aimed at supporting the Government’s commitment to a more accessible, open and transparent way of governing,” the site says.
Those wishing to join the blog must fill out a subscription form, provide a valid email address and submit to the blog’s conditions Unlike most blogs, the condition of posting include instructions not to provide internet addresses, videos, images or links to websites, or any email addresses, in contributions.
The site says moderation and publication of comments will only take place during business hours -- Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm –- and that submitted comments will only be processed and posted during business hours, and within 24 hours of receipt.
The first post, on climate change, asks readers how Australians can be made more aware that the country needs to act on climate change.
“It’s our responsibility to act now on climate change,” the blog reads. “That is why I urge all Senators and Members of Parliament to support this vital legislation for our nation’s future.”
As at the publication of this story, there were 339 replies to the blog.