OPTUS WELCOMES CHANGES TO USO

Cable & Wireless Optus today welcomed the Federal Government's proposed changes to the Universal Service Obligation (USO).

According to Adam Suckling, Group Manager Government and Regulatory Affairs for Cable & Wireless Optus, the changes are good news for all Australians living in remote areas.

"The USO tender will see competition in the provision of telecommunications in the bush for the first time. If successfully implemented, tendering will mean people in remote areas will have access to the latest technology at affordable prices. For example Optus could offer telephony, high speed internet and access to pay and free to air television to regional areas via our proven satellite network.

"We are interested in providing services to the 40,000 customers in the 'extended zones' who have timed local calls but providing additional services as part of the USO will depend on the conditions of the tendering process," Mr Suckling said.

For more information:
Stephen Woodhill
Phone: 02 9342 7850