Australia - National Broadband Network - Policies and Regulations - History

Synopsis

The National Broadband Network is going to change the game. While there will be a transition period where some of the old will remain, activities will increasingly move to the new environment. This in itself will see the players starting to realign themselves, and in preparation for the new world many will start changing their business plans well before that time.

Nevertheless, the government has published a far-reaching regulatory regime change that doesn’t leave any doubt that there is no way back to the old days where the incumbent was able to game the regime, creating endless delays and stifling competition.

In the end the outcome of the new framework will be aligned with the goals of the NBN, and with these dynamics negotiations and discussions are taking place aimed at shaping this new environment. The legislation passed Parliament in late 2010.

In this report we provide an overview of the regulatory framework and telecommunications reforms. We also analyse the regulatory issues and amendments to the NBN legislation. We also provide an update on funding arrangements for the NBN rollout.