Synopsis
This report provides a high level strategic assessment of five of the major telco players in the Australian telco marketplace. Telstra remains one of the most, if not the most profitable incumbent telcos in the developed market. Slowly but surely it is preparing itself for the digital economy. The company certainly has become more competitive, and more customer-focused. Belatedly Optus has become more active in the Australian telecommunications market. There are also good indications that SingTel is prepared to invest further in Australia once the conditions are right. The only serious option for survival of AAPT now depends on a successful merger with other Australian telcos. Vodafone is remaining in its position that it basically has had for the last 15 years, while Hutchison is no longer the clear leader in the premium 3G market.