“Errors in Telstra’s ADSL broadband application and billing systems are causing angst for Telstra’s competitors and customers alike,” Senator Kate Lundy, the Shadow Minister for Information Technology said today.
“As a result of errors in Telstra’s system for processing ADSL broadband applications, hundreds of ADSL applications – many from customers of Telstra’s competitors – have apparently been unprocessed since November 28.
“To make matters worse, according to a story on Whirlpool.net.au, Telstra managers reportedly waited almost a week before finally deciding to address this problem on December 3. It is unclear whether this problem has now been fixed.
“Given that Telstra’s competitors rely on Telstra to provide broadband access so that these competitors can provide the service to their own customers, a delay of five or so days is potentially damaging to their business,” Senator Lundy said.
“This is another example of Telstra using its monopoly position to disadvantage competitors that rely on its network.
“Today in Senate Question Time I asked the Minister, Senator Alston, to shed some light on these issues, but he claimed these issues are a matter for Telstra, not the Government,” Senator Lundy said.
“Unfortunately, Telstra isn’t dealing with these issues. Just yesterday, the Australian Communications Authority annual telecommunications performance report showed Telstra’s service levels are still languishing.
“If these are matters for Telstra, then the Government’s claim that their response to the Estens inquiry will improve Telstra’s services to the bush are exposed as weasel words.
“The Coalition can’t have its cake and eat it too,” Senator Lundy said.
Media contact: Simon Tatz – (02) 6277 3334 or Electorate Office – 0418 488 295
