In December 2014, the Government released for comment a new policy setting out its proposed approach to the provision of telecommunications infrastructure in new real estate developments.
In December 2014, the Government released for comment a new policy setting out its proposed approach to the provision of telecommunications infrastructure in new real estate developments.
The objective of the policy is to improve the efficient supply of telecommunications in new developments through effective competition while ensuring residents in new developments have ready access to modern telecommunications infrastructure.
The Government received submissions from developers, industry associations, carriers and other stakeholders and had a range of follow-up discussions.
After considering the feedback, the Government remains committed to the policy direction it put forward. However, consultation has identified that some changes would be useful.
Charges for in-estate infrastructure will continue to apply to new developments accepted by NBN Co from 1 March 2015. However, because of notification requirements, these charges would only be collected from the second half of the year.
In light of feedback, charges for backhaul and end-user connection will come into effect from 1 July 2015 to provide the development and communications sectors with more time to adjust. A number of other transitional arrangements in relation to backhaul will also be put in place.
The policy is currently being finalised and is expected to be released shortly.
Contact: media@communications.gov.au