Variation request submitted (deferral of disconnection - various services)27 Nov 2019

Telstra’s proposal to vary the Migration Plan

On 18 November 2019 Telstra submitted a proposed variation to the Migration Plan to the ACCC incorporating:

  • extended timeframes for disconnection requirements for non-serviceable premises
  • a deferral of disconnection requirements for DDS Fastway and Megalink Special Services dependent on Telstra’s ‘atomic clock’ signal
  • extension to the classification of In-Train Order Premises, to include instances where NBN Co has changed the access technology by which premises are NBN-serviceable to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).

The proposed variation also includes an amendment to Required Measure 5(B) which deals with the disconnection process for some Special Services including CustomNet.

The proposed variation covers a number of services for which the ACCC has previously supported Telstra’s proposed deferral of disconnection beyond the timeframe currently set out in the Migration Plan, in the interests of service continuity. Further information about the proposed variation is available in Telstra’s Migration Plan variation request and supporting submission below. A marked-up copy of the Migration Plan showing the proposed variation is also provided.

The ACCC sought written feedback from interested parties on the proposed variation by COB Friday, 10 January 2020.

ACCC's assessment of the proposal

The ACCC is required to publicly consult on proposed variations to the Migration Plan. After considering any submissions, the ACCC will decide whether to approve or refuse to approve a proposed variation as required under the Telecommunications Act 1997. The ACCC will publish its decision on the ACCC website.

In assessing Telstra’s proposal, the ACCC will consider the proposed variation against the Migration Plan Principles.

The Migration Plan Principles incorporate the following general principles:

  • ensuring the efficient and timely disconnection of carriage services from the separating network
  • minimising disruption to the supply of services to the extent that it is in Telstra’s control
  • giving wholesale customers autonomy over decisions associated with disconnection to the greatest extent practicable, and
  • providing for wholesale services to be disconnected in an equivalent manner to retail services to the greatest extent practicable.

Consultation process

The ACCC sought written feedback from interested parties by COB Friday, 10 January 2020 and received one submission.