"The review provided an opportunity to ensure that the Spam Act was continuing to operate effectively and protect Australians from unsolicited and unwanted electronic messages," Senator Coonan said.
"The review found that the legislation, as part of the Government's multilayered strategy against spam, enabled active enforcement, productive industry partnerships and, most importantly, international cooperation against the global problem that is spam."
More than 60 submissions were received in response to an issues paper released late last year.
"I would like to thank members of industry and the public for their valuable input during the consultation period," Senator Coonan said.
The review found that the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has undertaken effective and appropriate enforcement of the Spam Act.
"Since ACMA began its enforcement activities, Australia has dropped from 10th to 23rd on the list of worldwide sources of spam. Spam from the entire Australasia region now accounts for less than 0.8 percent of global spam," Senator Coonan said.
"The Australian legislative approach has been recommended as a template for other countries seeking to address spam by both the International Telecommunication Union and anti-spam organisation Spamhaus.
"The review highlighted the strong action taken by both the Government and Australian industry in combating spam. ISPs and the e-marketing industry have each developed codes of practice in support of the Spam Act," Senator Coonan said.
"Based on contributions received during public consultation, the report makes recommendations to Government on how to continue this good work.
"The Government will carefully consider these recommendations, ensuring that Australia's anti-spam approach continues to be appropriately targeted and effective."
The report on the Spam Act review and the submissions received can be accessed at www.dcita.gov.au/spam.
