Minister for Regional Communications, Senator Bridget McKenzie, has announced the committee which will undertake the next review of telecommunications services in regional, rural and remote areas.
The Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee (the Committee) is convened every three years to examine regional telecommunication services.
Six members have been appointed to the Committee: Mr Sean Edwards (Chair), Ms Wendy Duncan, Ms Johanna Plante, Ms Robbie Sefton, Ms Kylie Stretton and Mr Paul Weller.
Senator McKenzie said the review will commence shortly and called for all rural Australians to participate.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for those in the regions to have their say on how they use telecommunication services and the issues that affect them,” Minister McKenzie said.
“As a regional Australian myself, I know how important it is to have access to 21st century communications.
“The review will examine regional telecommunications issues closely and examine how rural Australians can maximise the economic and social benefits that next-generation telecommunication services can provide.”
The Government is also reviewing consumer protections for a post-2020 environment and is developing options for a universal service guarantee to ensure all Australians can access a voice and broadband service no matter where they live. The Committee will have regard to these reviews during their consultations.
The Committee will shortly call for submissions and will undertake public consultations in regional and rural areas later in the year. The Committee is expected to report to government by the end of September 2018.
Further information on the review and the terms of reference for the Committee are available at: www.rtirc.gov.au