OPTUS AND REQUEST SIGN DEAL TO EXPAND BROADBAND

More Small to Medium businesses (SME) than ever before will have access to fast data services over digital subscribe line (DSL) technology as a result of a broadband deal announced today by Optus and Request.

DSL allows SMEs to be logged on to the internet at all times without busying a phone line. This increases productivity by allowing high-speed data transfer via traditional copper telephone lines.

Optus and Request have entered into agreements to provide DSL products to each other enhancing both companies DSL coverage. This will increase future opportunities for both companies and ultimately deliver greater offerings to customers looking to adopt broadband.

Chris Hancock, Managing Director Optus Wholesale, said that the deal will help drive the availability and take up of DSL broadband.

"Expanded reach and services will ensure Optus' existing XYZed customers receive an even better package, while making the XYZed offering more attractive to SMEs looking for high-speed business grade DSL," said Mr Hancock.

Phil Sykes, Chief Executive Officer of Request, said the two companies will offer access to each other's DSL services but will still be competing for customers.

"Request will now have more than 50 new exchanges to increase its coverage and, as we roll out more exchanges, Optus' reach will also extend," said Mr Sykes.

The new arrangement allows Request and Optus to use DSL products and services offered by each other's infrastructure in geographic areas that are not covered by their current networks. Request will be able to use a full range of DSL access services from Optus in an additional 55 exchange areas.

Optus, via its wholly owned subsidiary XYZed, and Request have successfully deployed business grade DSL networks across Australia over the last 18 months. Both companies are leaders in this market for business grade broadband services and deliver reliable and cost effective DSL services to a range of wholesale service providers including other carriers, ISPs and System Integrators.

Optus is reviewing regional DSL, with a view to extending its current coverage.

For further information about Request visit www.request.com.au.

For more information:
Joni Gathercole
Optus Corporate Affairs
Phone: +61 2 9342 7850

Dolores Diez
Request Corporate Communications
Phone: +61 3 8628 2700
Mobile: 0417 330 881