Media Reforms: Telstra's Perspective

Abstract

Jane van Beelen outlines Telstra's perspective on the media reforms in the context of convergence. Telstra has argued that allocation of an unassigned 700MHz channel for mobile TV is consistent with the government's policy objectives of harnessing the opportunities from convergence to achieve diversity in Australia's media sector, and will enable the efficient provision of mobile TV services. Telstra cautions that these benefits will only manifest if the regulatory settings are right. The regulatory framework for Channel B will need to provide for competitive neutrality, up-front clarity of rights and obligations, market-based outcomes and a ‘light-touch’ regulatory framework.