The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has launched a consultation program on proposals from the National Broadband Network (NBN Co) relating to its service standards and entry level prices.
The ACCC said it had been inquiring into the issues until April this year when it postponed the work to allow the telco sector to focus on its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The ACCC has now recommenced these inquiries,” it said.
“Following extensive discussions with the ACCC, NBN Co has proposed measures including cheaper wholesale pricing for entry-level products to ensure an affordable product is available for consumers transitioning to the NBN, more certainty about NBN Co’s pricing and products, and stronger commitments about service standards, including rebates,” it said.
“These commitments are aimed at improving performance in appointment keeping, fault rectification, pricing certainty, connections, and service speeds.”
The ACCC said that if it found the measures reasonable they would be included in NBN Co’s next Wholesale Broadband Agreement with retail service providers, scheduled to commence in December and apply for two years.
Chair of the ACCC, Rod Sims said the inquiries were launched in response to concerns that NBN access terms were limiting competition and efficiency, and risked making NBN products unaffordable for some consumers.
The Commission said submissions would be accepted until 11 September.
Further information, including a 71 consultation paper from the ACCC and how to lodge a contribution, can be accessed at this PS News link.