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
Historic Reforms for Australia’s Telco Consumers
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy Senator Stephen Conroy said historic reforms to the telecommunications sector would deliver cheaper prices, more choice and drive innovative services for Australians.
Telecommunications Legislation Amendment (Competition and Consumer Safeguards) Bill 2009 passed through the Senate today following support from the Greens, Senator Fielding and Senator Xenophon.
“Australia has the 5th most expensive broadband charges amongst OECD countries and this Bill will help to bring prices down by allowing greater competition in the sector,” Senator Conroy said.
“Importantly, the legislation delivers key reforms that allow for the structural separation of Telstra, which means the Agreement between Telstra and NBN Co can be finalised.
“This is an important microeconomic reform that will transform the telecommunications sector and correct the mistakes of the past two decades.”
Senator Conroy said the legislation paved the way for a more efficient rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN).
“Telstra and NBN Co can get on with finalising Definitive Agreements which allow NBN Co to access Telstra’s infrastructure and migrate its customers onto the NBN,” Senator Conroy said.
“The delivery of the Government’s reforms, in parallel with the rollout of the NBN across Australia, will finally deliver the affordable broadband services Australians need now and importantly, into the future.
“I thank the Greens, Senator Fielding and Senator Xenophon for their support in delivering this crucial bill.
“They have been committed to delivering the best outcome for Australia consumers and they have provided valuable input to the legislation we have now passed.”
Senator Conroy said the support from the Greens, Senator Fielding and Senator Xenophon was in contrast to the Liberals and Nationals.
“The Liberals and Nationals have shown their complete disregard for Australian consumers by refusing to support this legislation,” Senator Conroy said.
“The Liberals and Nationals have shown they are only interested in delaying and demolishing the NBN.
“They have no regard for the millions of Australians who are paying too much for poor services.
“The Gillard Government is committed to delivering the reforms Australian consumers have been crying out for and we have demonstrated this by pushing ahead with the competition and consumer reform bill.
“I look forward to seeing the legislation pass through the House of Representatives on Monday, before being implemented into law, so Australians can begin seeing some benefits ahead of the NBN rollout.”
Date: 26 November 2010
Contact: Suzie Brady 0408 258 457
