Media Release
Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy
Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy
Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Digital Productivity
Code aims for better deal on mobile premium services
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, welcomed new draft rules aiming for a better deal for consumers of mobile premium services.
"Mobile premium services are often the source of significant consumer frustration. Consumers have the right to expect a fair deal and I welcome efforts by industry to provide them with improved safeguards and better information," Senator Conroy said.
"A new draft industry code is now available for consultation and I encourage consumers, industry bodies, and other interested parties to respond and contribute to the future mobile premium services regulatory framework."
"Industry should also be congratulated for the launch of the new 19SMS (www.19sms.com.au) web site, which aims to help consumers make informed choices about premium mobile services."
Mobile premium services are optional services such as ringtone downloads, competitions and news updates, which often cost more than a standard SMS, MMS or phone call.
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman received nearly 14,000 complaints about mobile premium services during 2007/08.
"Companies in this area need to lift their game and I welcome their efforts to do this with the new mobile premium services consumer protection code," Senator Conroy said.
The draft code, released by the Australian Communications and Media Authority, was developed by the industry body Communications Alliance, in consultation with consumer groups and other key stakeholders.
The draft code is available from the Communications Alliance web site (www.commsalliance.com.au) together with advice on how to lodge a submission. The closing date for submissions is Friday 12 December.
ends
Date: 11 November 2008
Contact: Tim Marshall 0408 258 457
