Wednesday, 08 April 2009 00:00

Melbourne, Australia – April 7, 2009 --Primus Telecom has strongly welcomed and noted its support for the Government’s proposals for the roll out of a high speed broadband network and the commencement of an inquiry into industry reform. According to Primus CEO Ravi Bhatia the proposals published today will deliver substantial competition benefits to consumers and businesses across Australia.

“The decisions taken today are truly historic, and are clearly decisions that only a confident and decisive Government could take. We are very pleased that these processes are underway and look forward to contributing,” said Mr Bhatia.

The Panel of Experts appointed to advise the Government on the tender concluded there had been deterioration in capital markets which had impacted on the ability of industry participants to achieve the required outcomes.

Commenting on the Government’s move to come up with this alternative proposal, Mr Bhatia said, “Given the turmoil in global finance markets the Government can be applauded for identifying a bold and visionary plan to bring 21st century broadband services to Australians. Moreover, the impact of the NBN initiative on creation of tens thousands of jobs during construction and on a long term basis is just what is required in the present macro-economic environment. We sincerely hope that a vast majority of these new job opportunities go to small businesses.”

In addition to the announcing the creation of a National Broadband Network the Government has also identified a list of key issues for reform of the industry.

“If you consider the list of issues identified by the Government, it is clear the Government is serious about addressing Telstra’s stranglehold and unlocking the competitive potential of the industry. As an industry we have been arguing for better competitive rights and raising many of these issues for some time now so it’s satisfying to see a Government with the courage to deliver on the competition rhetoric and take these issues on. ” said Mr Bhatia

The Panel of Experts noted the importance of competition, and the need to improve backhaul supply and regulation of the telecommunications industry. Mr Bhatia commented: “Primus will play its part in this process and we look forward to working with the Government and the rest of the industry to redesign the competition framework.”

For more information, please contact:

Pru Quinlan or Louise Roberts at Einsteinz Communication T: (02) 8905 0995
E: pru@einsteinz.com.au or louise@einsteinz.com.au
or

Ravi Bhatia, CEO Primus Telecom Australia. T: (03) 9923-3000
E: CEO@primustel.com.au
or

John Horan, General Counsel, Primus Telecom Australia T: (03) 9923-3000

About Primus www.iprimus.com.au

Primus Telecom is one of Australia’s largest telecommunications carriers offering a comprehensive range of high speed broadband, data, Internet, web hosting and voice products, servicing both business and residential sectors. The Primus network provides nationwide coverage through its own backbone network with facilities in 66 cities and 286 DSLAM exchanges across Australia. The network enables the Company to provide nationwide long distance services and local call Internet access. Primus operates its own fibre network in the five major capital cities, delivering a range of business direct-connect services including ISDN, frame relay, ATM, telephone line and broadband DSL, as well as telephone line and broadband DSL services direct to residential customers.