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As the peak communications consumer body, ACCAN advocates for the interests of Australian communications consumers by representing individuals, small businesses and not-for profit groups on communications matters.
Under the current regulatory regime for the publicly owned NBN, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) regulates NBN Co’s wholesale prices, expenditure and service standards.
“This additional funding to ACCAN will help ensure Australian consumers are getting access to quality broadband at the best prices,” says Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP.
“Ensuring that consumer voices are heard and integrated in the development of NBN regulatory proposals is key to providing all Australians with high-quality, reliable and affordable broadband.”
The Albanese Government has committed to keeping the NBN in public ownership and retaining independent oversight of wholesale prices to keep broadband more affordable for more Australians.
This new funding of up to $2.5 million will enable ACCAN to advocate for the interests of consumers as part of processes required under NBN Co’s Special Access Undertaking (SAU) which is overseen by the ACCC.
Read also: ACCAN highlights unresolved telco complaints in TIO report
Under the SAU, NBN Co must consult with consumer advocacy groups and industry on its proposed investments, baseline service standards and entry level pricing offer. ACCAN will utilise funding under this grant agreement to participate in and inform these consultation processes.
This builds on the Government’s existing funding of ACCAN through the Consumer Representation Grants Program.
“Consumers will now have a seat at the table in determining corporate expenditure, price settings and service levels for the NBN – influencing billions of dollars of forward spending,” comments ACCAN CEO, Carol Bennett.
“This important work will ensure consumers don’t pay more than they should for internet services and that the NBN benefits consumers for decades to come.”
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