Telstra opposes mandatory roaming as ACCC inquiry begins
Telstra chairman Craig Dunn said mandatory roaming won't build towers or extend coverage.
Telstra has opposed mandatory roaming, which would require mobile operators to offer service to other networks' customers in areas where they don't normally operate. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission launched a 12-month inquiry in August, with submissions due in November.
The goal is to improve service for Australians in remote and rural areas. Telstra chairman Craig Dunn told shareholders that mandatory roaming does not build new towers.
It does not extend coverage into areas where no network exists. Telstra has spent $3.8 billion on its regional and remote mobile network over the past five years.
Dunn said new regulation should be judged by its incentives. He warned that roaming mandates could slow investment.
Why it mattersIf the ACCC pushes for mandatory roaming, it could reshape how networks compete and affect investment in regional coverage that Australians in remote areas depend on.
AustraliaRural and remote Australians hoping for better mobile coverage are caught between Telstra's investment strategy and government pressure for access rules. The outcome could affect network quality and competition across regional Australia.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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