Quotable Quotes: Senator Alston on Telecommunications Code

On February 1996, Senator Richard Alston, then Opposition spokesperson on Communications:

"It is outrageous that the (Keating) Government has ignored community concerns and encouraged an open slather approach at odds with practice in the rest of the world.

"In contrast, the coalition has consistently called for almost two years for a tighter Code which gives more power to local communities. Once we are in government, a firm and balanced Code will be introduced, giving councils and their constituents more say over the communications infrastructure in their areas. There will be enforcement of the carrier's responsibilities under the Code and where carriers fail to abide by the Code, fines will be imposed. There will be an early examination of the feasibility of awarding compensation where the installation of telecommunications infrastructure substantially and permanetly affects the value of residential premises."

 

In April 1997, Senator Alston, now Minister for Communications and the Arts wrote in the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association's newsletter:

"We are witnessing an exciting time in the evolution of the telecommunications industry in Australia. The heavy hand of regulation is being substantially removed by the new Telecommunications Act, which takes effect on 1 July 1997. This presents tremendous opportunities to industry players. Clearly, industry associations such as AMTA bear a substantial responsibility to inform their members about these opportunities. The new Act also imposes new responsibilities on the industry as a whole. Of course increased freedom means increased responsibility. The Government is keen to see the industry take up the challenge of self-regulation with vigour and a willingness to cooperate. It is self- regulation that will foster competion and growth and innovation leading to benefits for all Australians. Of course, the Government has ensured that there are regulatory safeguards to operate in the public interest should self-regulation not be possible immediately in some areas.

"The legislation represents a fundamental shift in the way the Government views the telecommunications industry. While we have kept industry-specific regulation, particularly in relation to consumer safeguards and trade practices law, we have also provided the mechanism for the industry to determine technical standards and to develope codes of conduct in consumer related areas. These are particularly relevant to the fast-growing and highly competitive mobile communications sector.

"The Government will be watching keenly the success of these self-regulatory mechanisms. While I am pleased to note the progress made in "umbrella" bodies such as the Telecommunications Access Forum (TAF) and the Australian Communicatins Industry Forum (ACIF), there is so much more to do. Groups such as AMTA clearly have a major role to play here. I encourage all players to participate constructively in the development of industry codes and standards.

"The new regulatory environment is evolutionary. We do not expect enormous upheavals from day one. The Government will work closely with groups such as AMTA to ensure that the mechanisms are reviewed and strengthened on an ongoing basis, and that particular industry concerns are dealt with appropriately.

"Like all who observe it, I am excited about the enormous potential of the telecommunications industry. The mobile telephone segment of the industry has been one of the most dynamic and fast changing. The future of that segment, and the industry as a whole, is largely in the hands of the industry itself. Ultimately, this future must be determined through co-operation and enthusiasm and the willingness to deliver quality communications services to all. Good luck."