The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's review of Telstra's proposal to charge for directory assistance will hold its public hearings in Adelaide on Thursday 17 July.
The ACCC has 30 days, from 2 July, to review Telstra's proposal after the company's notification to Communications and Arts Minister, Senator Alston, that it wished to charge 50c for 013 calls in certain circumstances. The Minister may disallow the proposal, but only after receiving an ACCC recommendation. The ACCC must make its recommendation by 1 August.
"The ACCC is seeking the views of consumer, rural, industry and business groups." ACCC Commissioner responsible for consumer protection issues in telecommunications, Mr David Lieberman, said today.
Mr Lieberman heads a committee including ACCC Chairman, Professor Allan Fels, and Mr Rod Shogren, Commissioner responsible for telecommunications, which will be considering this matter. "The hearings are open to the public and the ACCC is particularly interested in hearing about the adequacy of the proposed exemption system for those who cannot read, hold or use the printed directory and its associated administration procedures.
"Other issues being examined include the level of discretionary use of directory assistance service and the principle of user-pays and also the level of the proposed charge and the offsetting reduction to annual rentals by $5.40."
The hearing will be held at the Glenroy Room, Grosvenor Vista Hotel, 125 North Terrace, Adelaide from 2.30 to 5pm.
"The ACCC seeks written submissions by the 18 July deadline. This deadline cannot be extended."
Further information Mr David Lieberman, ACCC Commissioner (0416) 264 333
