New telephone services can be requested through Telstra. There are several providers who provide fixed phone services. The Federal Government through the Universal Service Obligation and Customer Service Guarantee has set minimum service standards.
The Universal Service Obligation (USO) ensures that all Australians have reasonable access on an equitable basis to the standard telephone service and payphones. On 27 June 2007, the Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts Senator Helen Coonan announced a review of the Universal Service Obligation (USO) and extensive cuts to telecommunications industry regulatory red tape. Senator Coonan said the USO review will look at the current industry obligations and determine whether the load is being equally shared amongst telecommunications providers. The discussion paper mentioned in the press release shall be released for public comment shortly.
The Customer Service Guarantee ensures that telecommunications companies meet minimum standards for connecting, repairing faults or service difficulties, and attending appointments with customers.
For problems with your telephone service you should first seek a remedy from you telephone company If you are dissatisfied with the solution offered or the problem is not resolved to your satisfaction then you should contact the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman TIO.
Last updated 28 June 2007