Media Release: GOVERNMENT TELCO DEAL DELIVERS BROADBAND COMPETITION TO THOMASTOWN

FROM THE MINISTER FOR INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

DATE: Wednesday, May 18, 2005

GOVERNMENT TELCO DEAL DELIVERS BROADBAND COMPETITION TO THOMASTOWN

Businesses in Thomastown will benefit from competitive broadband services thanks to the Bracks Government’s Telecommunications Purchasing and Management Strategy (TPAMS), the Minister for Information and Communication Technology, Marsha Thomson, said today.

“Optus is rolling out $20 million worth of broadband infrastructure across Victoria as part of its Government contract, and that will mean businesses in Thomastown will have the benefit of competition in the broadband market for the first time,” Ms Thomson said

“This is a real coup for Thomastown businesses.

“The Government has paved the way for increased competition in the telecommunications market as a direct result of its contract with Optus for fixed voice services in tranche one of the Government’s TPAMS tender.

The broadband infrastructure – known as DSLAMs (Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexers) will be installed in Thomastown to provide businesses with increased access to high-grade voice and data services, establishing competitive alternatives in regional areas.

“This is another example of the Bracks Government teaming with industry to achieve benefits for Victorian businesses,” Ms Thomson said.

“The Government’s broadband goals are outlined in the Broadband Framework, released in April. The Bracks Government’s objective is that by 2010, Victoria will have an extensive broadband infrastructure, including a mix of platforms and technologies, able to deliver quality services at fair prices.

“Optus’ DSLAM rollout is part of a telecommunications infrastructure investment program worth more than $100 million over the next three years which was secured through the TPAMS process.

“The Bracks Government’s aggregated purchasing strategy has exceeded all targets, becoming the most successful telecommunications deal brokered in Australia.

Aiming to reduce government telecommunications costs by $73 million over five years, TPAMS contracts have in fact lowered costs by almost $200 million for that period, plus securing more than $100M million worth of infrastructure to be delivered across the state as part of the contracts.

“This strategic approach to telecommunications procurement is delivering tangible benefits for Victorians through not only better public services delivered through state-of-the-art technology, but with the a flow-on effect to the wider community through investment in infrastructure, leading to more competition and lower prices.”