Australian competition regulator ACCC is considering introducing regulation specifically for super-fast broadband access services (SBAS) to prevent local monopolies dominating in specific areas.
The regulator said it plans to simplify and clarify the regulations that apply in this area. Currently some superfast broadband services are subject to license conditions while others aren't regulated at all.
The ACCC has produced a draft declaration that would apply to services with a download speed of more than 25 Mbps.
In areas with no competition providers would need to provide wholesale access to the networks for retail providers. But in areas where the operator is facing competition this will not apply.
According to the regulator the proposed new regulation would not apply to services provided by NBN Co - the state-owned company rolling out the National Broadband Network - or over the HFC networks due to be transferred to the company.
“The ACCC considers declaration of a superfast broadband access service will promote the long-term interests of end-users because it is likely to promote competition between telecommunications providers supplying services to end-users,” ACCC chairman Rod Sims commented.