The Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) supports government steps towards clarifying the telecommunications regulatory environment in preparation for the nationwide rollout of the National Broadband Network.

Telecommunications regulatory reforms were announced today by the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy.

“Moves toward regulatory reform complement government initiatives across the technology sector that aim to drive efficiencies and create a competitive business environment as part of the foundation of a genuine digital economy in Australia,” AIIA CEO Ian Birks said.

An open, competitive environment will be essential to delivering return on investment in National Broadband and creating an environment that will support a thriving digital economy.

Regulatory reform has been identified by AIIA and a number of independent parties as an important factor in the establishment of National Broadband infrastructure that is competitively priced and widely accessible to all Australians. 

In one analysis, the Centre for International Economics estimated that up to 25 percent of the benefits expected to be gained from National Broadband infrastructure could be lost without reform of the telecommunications market and regulatory structure.

These reforms begin a process of ensuring the commercial viability of the National Broadband Network. This will be essential for the health of Australia’s digital economy in the future.

Today’s announcement provides an avenue for Telstra to remain engaged and competitive in both areas and will lead to improved outcomes across the board. AIIA anticipates that all areas of the digital marketplace will benefit significantly from Telstra’s experience, influence and active involvement under the revised regulations.