OPTUSNET HITS 400,000 SUBSCRIBERS

Optus today announced it had reached 406,000 broadband subscribers, adding more than 50,000 subscribers in the last quarter. This strong and steady growth can be attributed in part to the success of OptusNet DSL which now has over 162,000 subscribers. OptusNet cable has 244,000 customers in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. "Our continued focus on simple broadband deals that offer customers great value has been the key in driving our broadband growth," Allen Lew, Managing Director, Optus Consumer said. Last month, Optus introduced a plan that offered customers six months free broadband access when they take up their mobile and home phone with Optus. "Our bundling strategy is working - we expect to see an increasing number of customers choosing Optus as their provider of choice because we have demonstrated our ability to break new ground and offer our customers innovative yet simple deals that return clear value for money," Mr Lew said. Through Optus' recent alliance with Ninemsn, OptusNet customers can also look forward to a new portal and personalised browser later this year. The ability for customers to synchronise content across their internet and mobile services will strengthen Optus' bundling proposition. "Optus' success in broadband is based on the deep and lasting relationships we build with our customers. The fact that we will soon deliver a converged user experience demonstrates our commitment to taking customers to the next level of seamless entertainment and information delivery. OptusNet customers will enjoy one of the most advanced portal experiences in the world," Mr Lew said. Optus will announce its first quarter results as at 30 June, 2005 this Thursday, 4 August. For more information: Sheila Dhillon or Sarah Turner Optus Corporate Affairs Tel: (02) 9342 9021 or (02) 9342 8432