More funding to support advocacy to keep broadband affordable

Source: More funding to support advocacy to keep broadband affordable

The Albanese Government is delivering additional funding to the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) to further its work in representing the interests of telco consumers, in line with its commitment in the 2024-25 Budget.
 
As the peak communications consumer body, ACCAN advocates for the interests of Australian communications consumers by representing individuals, small businesses and not-for profit groups on communications matters.
 
Under the current regulatory regime for the publicly owned NBN, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) regulates NBN Co’s wholesale prices, expenditure and service standards. 
 
The Albanese Government has committed to keeping the NBN in public ownership and retaining independent oversight of wholesale prices to keep broadband more affordable for more Australians
 
This new funding of up to $2.5 million will enable ACCAN to advocate for the interests of consumers as part of processes required under NBN Co’s Special Access Undertaking (SAU) which is overseen by the ACCC.
 
Under the SAU, NBN Co must consult with consumer advocacy groups and industry on its proposed investments, baseline service standards and entry level pricing offer. ACCAN will utilise funding under this grant agreement to participate in and inform these consultation processes.
 
This builds on the Government’s existing funding of ACCAN through the Consumer Representation Grants Program.