OPTUS AWARDED EXTENSION OF MAJOR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGREEMENT

Optus announced today it had been successful in extending an agreement for a further two year with a group of Federal Government departments and agencies, collectively known as Cluster 3.

Optus has been supplying voice and data services to the Cluster for over six years. The extension valued at $50.5 million, will be valid until June 2007.

Mr Peter Kaliaropoulos, Managing Director of Optus Business said the Cluster 3 agreement was a significant win for Optus.

"Optus' track record in delivering mission critical, whole-of-business communications services to Cluster 3 Agencies, has resulted in them extending their relationship with us," Mr Kaliaropoulos said.

"We are committed to developing strong relationships with the Agencies, and other large clients, through the delivery of innovative and cost-efficient services - backed by strong service level agreements."

The agreement will see Optus continue to provide Cluster 3 with managed voice; data; local area network (LAN); mobile; and inbound telephony.

"Once again Optus has led the telecommunications industry in deploying high-quality ICT services. We look forward to expanding our range of services for the benefit of Cluster 3 and their customers," Mr Kaliaropoulos said.

Departments and agencies under the Cluster 3 banner include: the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs; Australian Electoral Commission; Geoscience Australia; IPS Radio and Space Services: and the Department of Finance and Administration.

Media contact:
Luisa Ford
Optus Corporate Affairs
Phone: +61 2 9342 5045