Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy

Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy

DEPUTY LEADER OF THE GOVERNMENT IN THE SENATE

National Broadband Network regulatory submissions now available

The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today announced the publication of submissions on National Broadband Network regulatory issues.

“These submissions are available to inform proponents when formulating proposals to build and operate the National Broadband Network,” Senator Conroy said.

“The Panel of Experts, which will assess proposals for the National Broadband Network, has received the submissions and is able to take them into account in evaluating proposals.”

“The National Broadband Network will be a vital communications platform for Australia's future. The regulatory submission process provides stakeholders and the broader community with the opportunity to give their views on the appropriate regulatory arrangements, including consumer safeguards, that should apply to the new network.”

“The submissions will also provide a general resource for the Government in relation to the development of future communications policy and regulation.”

“While rules apply to what Proponents can say about the RFP process, the Government welcomes a wide ranging and constructive public discussion of the regulatory issues associated with the National Broadband Network,” Senator Conroy said.

Copies of the submissions can be found at: www.dbcde.gov.au/regulatorysubmissions

Date: 2 July 2008
Contact: Tim Marshall 0408 258 457