The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has issued a Discussion Paper calling for submissions on Telstra's proposed access undertaking for its line sharing service.
The line sharing service enables two carriers to provide separate services over a single line. For example, it allows Telstra to supply basic telephone services to a customer while also enabling its competitors to provide high-speed data services on the same line.
The undertaking specifies the terms and conditions under which Telstra will provide access to the line sharing service until 31 December 2004. Specifically, it proposes a monthly rental charge of $15 per service in operation.
"In deciding whether to accept or reject the proposed undertaking the ACCC will consult widely with the public to ensure interested parties have the opportunity to fully express their views", ACCC Chairman, Mr Graeme Samuel, said today. "The discussion paper outlines the process the ACCC will follow in assessing the undertaking, including the appropriateness of Telstra's proposed rate of $15 per month. Industry views on current and future uptake of the line sharing service are particularly encouraged".
Under the Trade Practices Act 1974 the ACCC has six months from the submission date to determine whether to accept or reject the proposed access undertaking. The access undertaking was submitted on 1 September 2003.
However, this period has been extended as the ACCC required Telstra to supply further explanatory information to support its undertaking. This supporting material will be made available to interested parties as part of the consultation process.
The ACCC seeks submissions on the undertaking by no later than five weeks from the date upon which Telstra makes relevant confidential information reasonably available for industry assessment.