Commpete, Australia’s peak body for challenger telecommunications brands, congratulates Anthony Albanese and the Australian Labor Party on the victory in the federal election.
In particular, Commpete wishes to recognise the re-election of Michelle Rowland and looks forward to working with her as the likely Minister for Communications. Commpete values the many years of commitment to the telecommunications sector Ms. Rowland has showed as a Shadow Communications Minister, ably supported by her expert team of advisors.
Where does Commpete stand on teleco sector reform?
Commpete strongly supports a Labor commitment to reform the telecommunications sector. Real opportunities exist for the incoming Labor Government including;
- mobile competition policy
- optimisation of spectrum allocations for efficient usage for the best interests of consumers
- the importance of decisions relating to NBN ownership as a significant piece of critical public infrastructure and the impact a potential sale would have on our nation.
What are executive’s thoughts on the sector reform?
Commpete Chair, Michelle Lim noted the opportunities that are open to the incoming government: “The incoming Labor Government has incredible opportunity to create a more inclusive sector which comprises a diverse mix of new entrants, strong independent dynamic challengers as well as established incumbents. Commpete and our members are looking forward to working together with the new Government throughout the next term.”
“On behalf of our members I wish to thank Minister Paul Fletcher and Minister Bridget McKenzie for their hard work and ongoing engagement with Commpete,” Lim continued.
“The vital journey to boost communications access and quality services in regional Australia will continue and must include further measures to encourage big business to the bush, and also create a framework for the sector to ensure greater choice, value, competition and affordability. Doing this will ensure no-one, anywhere in Australia, is left behind,” said Lim.
“The journey to reform regional communications and competition begun under the previous gov’t when it kick-started development of open access competition in regional Australia.”
“Initiatives supported by Commpete like policy and funding mandates encouraging neutral host models, the Regional Communications funding boosts, commitment to blackspots programs, and funding 800km of regional mobile deployment under an open access regime.”
“We thank the outgoing Government, welcome the new Government and look forward to working with industry in the many exciting changes afoot. Commpete will continue to work with all Government bodies and regulators on both, social and economic policy settings to frame important future reforms by a Labor government,” said Michelle Lim.
