Updates to the carriers’ powers and immunities framework will take effect from today to better support the rollout of telecommunications networks and a better balance of interests between landowners and carriers.
The updates to the framework were informed through extensive consultation with peak bodies from landowner and telecommunications sectors, and two public consultation processes.
Changes to the framework are being implemented in two tranches, with the first tranche of updates coming into effect today including:
Requirements for carriers to:
- provide installation certificates for certain deployments of low-impact facilities
- record the depth of underground facilities at the time of installation
- issue notices of withdrawal for cancelled activities
- refer objections to the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) within 10 business days, if requested by a landowner.
Allowance for carriers to:
- independently refer matters to the TIO
- deploy larger antennae, larger dishes and lens antennae
- install successive tower extensions, while preserving the cumulative limit of 5 metres
- co-locate more facilities in commercial areas.
Landowners will benefit from the improved notifications and objections process, and be reassured about the safety of installations from carriers through the introduction of installation certificates.
Telecommunications carriers will also benefit from new powers including extensions to towers and antenna protrusions, new provisions that allow for the deployment of a new type of facility, as well as increased co-location volume limits in commercial areas.
These changes are part of the Australian Government’s commitment to improving the powers and immunities framework to get the best out of new networks, including 5G, and to better balance the interests of both landowners and carriers.
For more information, visit the Telecommunications Infrastructure Deployment page.