Revised Telecommunications Consumer Protection Compliance Framework released for public comment

Sydney, 26 November 2015 – Australian Telecommunications Alliance today released for public comment a series of proposed revisions to Chapter 9 of the Telecommunications Consumer Protections (TCP) Code 2012. This chapter describes the Code Compliance Monitoring Framework of the TCP Code.

The proposed amendments to Chapter 9 of the TCP Code– released today – seek to build upon the success of the current Code Compliance provisions – which have contributed to a reduction of more than 35% in complaints to the industry ombudsman in the past three years.

Australian Telecommunications Alliance CEO, John Stanton, said that the proposed TCP Code Chapter 9 sought an appropriate balance between accountability and flexibility for Suppliers.

“The TCP Code Compliance Framework has been successful, as evidenced by the increase in attestations received by CommCom (the body set up by industry to monitor compliance with the TCP Code), as well as the continued drop in TIO Complaints. The proposed amendments seek to reinforce the accountability on Suppliers to comply with the Code, while recognising that the complexity of systems and processes within telcos will vary according to size and customer base”.

The proposed amendments seek to provide additional flexibility for smaller service providers in meeting their obligations under the TCP Code by introducing an additional window to submit lodgement documentation to CommCom. Further, Small Suppliers will be required to attest that their processes and systems are compliant with the TCP Code, but without needing to develop a Compliance Plan in accordance with the Australian Standard.

The proposed amendments also introduce a requirement for Suppliers bound by the TCP Code to register with Australian Telecommunications Alliance. Suppliers will also, for the first time, be able to attest Partial Compliance with the TCP Code. Partial attestations must be submitted alongside a Compliance Achievement Plan in which the Supplier must identify gaps in compliance and a plan to achieve full compliance.

In line with legislated requirements for Codes, the public comment period will run until 30 December 2015.

ABOUT COMMUNICATIONS ALLIANCE

Australian Telecommunications Alliance is the primary communications industry body in Australia. Its membership is drawn from a wide cross-section of the communications industry, including carriers, carriage and internet service providers, content providers, platform providers, equipment vendors, IT companies, consultants and business groups.

Its vision is to be the most influential association in Australian communications, co-operatively initiating programs that promote sustainable industry development, innovation and growth, while generating positive outcomes for customers and society.

The prime mission of Australian Telecommunications Alliance is to create a co-operative stakeholder environment that allows the industry to take the lead on initiatives which grow the Australian communications industry, enhance the connectivity of all Australians and foster the highest standards of business behaviour.

Media information contact:
info@austelco.org.au