Media Release

Reforms to improve consumer protection in telecommunications

The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today announced reforms to improve consumer protection in the telecommunications sector.

"There is strong evidence that suggests consumers do not have confidence in their telecommunications service providers," Senator Conroy said.

"The Rudd Government wants to see consumers in the telecommunications market getting the service and conditions that they expect."

At the CommsDay Summit, Senator Conroy announced an examination of the consumer code development process and the implementation of new code enforcement powers for the Australian Communications and Media Authority.

"The protracted development of the Mobile Premium Services consumer code has highlighted clear deficiencies with the co-regulatory framework," Senator Conroy said.

"If co-regulation is to remain viable, industry must ensure that the code processes are more responsive to consumer needs."

"Improving the code development process is only one piece of the puzzle and effective consumer protection should be supported by an increased emphasis on enforcement."

"We need to provide the Australian Communications and Media Authority with faster, more effective incentives to encourage compliance with codes and regulations."

Senator Conroy released an issues paper on the key matters to be considered by the review of the code development processes. He also announced plans to amend the Telecommunications Act 1997 to allow ACMA to issue infringement notices.

These measures are part of a broader Rudd Government commitment to improve consumer representation in telecommunications, including the establishment of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network, a new peak representation body.

For more information, visit: www.dbcde.gov.au

Date: 31 March 2009
Contact: Tim Marshall 0408 258 457