Optus announced today it had extended its reach in South Australia by securing a four-year, whole of business contract with leading defence systems company, BAE Systems Australia.

Under the agreement, worth more than $6 million over four years, Optus will provide a secure, managed telecommunications environment for BAE Systems including all voice, data and mobile services.

Optus will connect more than 2,500 employees in 30 locations over an Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network (IP VPN), ensuring BAE Systems can focus on its core business activities and reap the benefits of value for money, simplified management and flexibility.

"Optus displayed a strong and consistent theme of partnership throughout the tender process and demonstrated it could provide innovative solutions and cost savings," David Gillard, Commercial and Procurement Director, BAE Systems Australia said.

"This agreement will significantly reduce our overall expenditure and improve service levels by utilising an IP VPN. It will also provide us with greater control and reporting visibility on our telecommunications environment and expenditure through Optus' Integrated Business Solutions (IBS) group," Paul Bassett, Acting IS Manager, BAE Systems Australia said.

Harvey Marcus, Optus General Manager, South Australia, said the agreement confirmed Optus' commitment to enhance competition in South Australia which would lead to more affordable services and facilitate more investment in telecommunications services.

"There are significant business opportunities in South Australia and Optus is committed to building its presence in the State," Mr Marcus said.

"Optus is winning key accounts nationally and currently growing at about three times the market rate. The agreement with BAE Systems Australia reinforces this national trend, and signifies a move by Optus to gain more traction in South Australia."

Optus has more than 245 mobile phone base stations in South Australia and has committed to invest $24.8 million in new base stations over the next three years. Optus currently provides mobile coverage to 93 per cent of the South Australian population.

For more information:
Sarah Turner
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: (02) 9342 8432