OPTUS TURNS ON 3G MOBILE COVERAGE IN DARWIN

Optus announced today two major milestones for the Northern Territory with Optus becoming the first provider to offer competition for 3G mobile and wireless broadband services in Darwin. Optus also announced the opening of the Optus 'yes' shop at Casuarina Shopping Centre in Darwin - the first newly designed Optus retail outlet to be unveiled in the Northern Territory.

Mark Williamson, Director, Northern Region said, "Optus has upgraded all its mobile sites in Darwin to offer 3G services. We are also planning to build extra sites to expand our 3G coverage in Moil, Malak, Charles Darwin Uni, Ludmilla and Darwin CBD West in the coming months."

The expansion of Optus' 3G network in Darwin will deliver a wide range of services to Optus 3G customers including wireless broadband which offers the freedom and convenience to access the internet wherever there is Optus 3G coverage.

Optus offers a wide and evolving range of content services to its 3G customers via the Optus Zoo portal including Google, GPS mapping, eBay, MTV mobile, sports results, Fox Sports News, Facebook on mobile, MySpace Mobile and more.

Business customers can also enjoy the convenience of sending and receiving emails and accessing business applications via the Optus 3G network.

"With Optus continuing to expand its 3G mobile network in the Northern Territory, we are demonstrating our commitment to providing greater choice, better service and sensational value to more Territorians," Mr Williamson said.

In addition to the turning on of its 3G network, Optus is also opening a newly designed retail outlet at Casuarina Shopping Centre in Darwin.

Mr Williamson said the new store reflects Optus' direction of delivering a superior customer experience.

"Flexibility and convenience is what Optus is all about. We are and will continue to be the 'yes' brand," Mr Williamson said.

"The Optus 'yes' shops are our premium retail distribution channel for consumers and small businesses. They sell and support Optus' product suite, including 3G mobile phones, wireless products and accessories.

"I am confident that people in Darwin will find this new store easy to navigate - especially with our friendly staff ready to assist customers with their individual needs," Mr Williamson said.

Note to Editor:

• The Optus 'yes' Shop at Casuarina Square is located at 247 Trower Rd Casuarina, Darwin.
• Over the next 18 months, areas including Dundee Downs, Adelaide River, Darwin River, Batchelor, Wagait Beach and Lake Bennet will also receive Optus 3G coverage for the first time.
• New sites will also be built to provide enhanced mobile and wireless broadband at Humpty Doo South, Howard Springs East, Knuckey Lagoon and Millner. These sites are expected to be built by December 2009.

Media contact:
Joshua Drayton
Optus Corporate Affairs
(02) 8082 7850