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I recently received an email from Simon Johnson regarding the fact that he was applying to be on the board of the Australian Domain Name Administrator (AUDA). Simon is a domainer and is putting his efforts where his mouth is when it comes to trying to bring positive change to the com.au namespace for domain owners.
I gave him a call and was really impressed by his passion, professionalism and desire to roll up his sleeves and make a real effort to tackle some of the really difficult issues with com.au that have plagued Australian domainers for years. Below is Simon's brief bio as well as his position on a range of issues. I would like to wish him all the best in the upcoming election and with any luck and possibly your vote he'll get on!
Regards,
Michael Gilmour
---------------------------
 Simon Johnson
Co-Founder Domainer Income
* Co-Founded one of Australia's first ISPs (isp.com.au) and Internet Security companies (shake.net)
* Former writer for Australian Personal Computing Magazine
* Author of best selling book on Internet Safety (Keep Your Kids Safe), published worldwide by McGraw Hill.
* 12+ years working for large multinational companies in the areas of Security, Fraud and Risk.
I'm applying for the auDA Board for many reasons.
- The .au space is over regulated, and that regulation needs to be reviewed. Australia has been lagging behind the rest of the world, largely due to the restrictions placed on Registrants.
- To improve the level of transparency and accountability (to auDA members). For example, should all members receive an annual report? Should members have access to financial statements that meet Australian Accounting Standards?
- Increase the input and involvement of members, to ensure that auDA
is, and remains a truly representative body;
- To bring my proven record of experience to the board to tackle new
threats to the .au domain space;
Regulation
- Too much regulation will have a negative impact on the the industry.
- Should auDA be in a position to tell a legitimate business, what domain name it can have, and when they can sell it?
Industry Associations
- I'm not involved with ICANN, EFA or any other lobby group/entity.
- I'd like to see auDA getting the balance right when it comes to representation on both the board and various committees, who provide advice.
Transparency and Accountability
Should auDA members have access to:
- Documents, circulars and presentations to the Board? (With the
exception of legally privileged items)
- Voting results for all board members. If you elect a Board member, aren't you entitled to see what they voted for?
- A clear view of all finances, so members can understand where their fees are being spent.
ICANN Expansion of Top Level Domains
- You may be aware that I have an extensive background in Information Security, Fraud and Risk. My concern with the existing proposal is that it may inadvertently jeopardise the security and stability of the Internet.
- What's unclear, is how ICANN will address trademark issues, non Latin characters, public education (confusion) and additional security issues, such as Phishing.
Drop Lists / Domain Catching Services
- auDA should take no action in relation to unofficial domain drop lists and domain-catching services.
Licensees Holding Multiple Registrar Licenses
- At present I can't see the need for any limits to be placed on the number of auDA licensed registrars. After all, its competition, which ultimately benefits consumers.
Summary
The auDA board needs fresh eyes, new ideas and energy. Given my long-standing, proven track record and technical experience, I'm in a position to help get us to where we need to be. I'd encourage all Demand Class members to vote at this Election. With your vote, we can make a difference.
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