Consumer representation review (ACCAN)

Listen

We have reviewed the effectiveness of section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Telco Act), which provides for consumer representation and research on telecommunications issues.

Why we want your input

We want to hear your views and ideas about the future of consumer representation and research on telecommunications issues.

How you can voice your opinion

You can have your say by providing a written submission by 25 November 2016, 5.00pm (AEST). We will also contact key stakeholders to discuss the paper. If you would like to discuss the issues paper with us, we would be happy to hear from you.

What will be the outcome of this consultation?

Your submissions will be used to inform future arrangements for consumer representation and research provided under section 593 of the Telco Act.

The Issue

The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) is currently the sole recipient of grants under section 593. We are reviewing the effectiveness of the current arrangements in representing consumers.

The current funding arrangements for consumer representation were established in 1998. Significant changes have occurred in the communications sector since that time. This review is an opportunity to assess whether these arrangements are still fit for purpose in the current communications environment.

We are seeking your views in response to an issues paper.

Relevant Documentation

Consumer representation: Review of section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997

Published 24th Oct 2016

Download PDF (854.75 KB) Download DOC (1.01 MB)

We are conducting a review of the effectiveness of section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Telco Act), with reference to the most recent grants of financial assistance provided to the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN).

Submission template

Published 24th Oct 2016

Download DOC (16.32 KB)

You may use this submission template when responding to this consultation. You may answer as many or as few of the questions as you choose. When you are ready, you can upload it through the 'Have your say now' button below.

Outcome

The final report of the review has been released. The review makes ten recommendations, including:

• retaining Section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997

• establishing a new funding agreement with ACCAN

• proposals for improved engagement between ACCAN and industry

• improvements to the independent research grants program, administered by ACCAN, fostering collaboration between government, regulatory agencies and industry representatives to guide research priorities

• the removal of funding caps and time limits for research projects to provide greater flexibility and allow for longer-term research proposals.

The Government has accepted the review’s recommendations and will enter into a new funding agreement with ACCAN following the expiry of the current funding agreement in May 2017.