Don’t be fooled by the lower than usual number of consultations going on, there’s still lots happening in the sector when it comes to policy!
Co-regulation for telecommunications continues to come under fire and is very topical as Communications Alliance released its near-complete draft of the Telecommunications Consumer Protections (TCP) Code Review 2024 to the Review Committee on 20 May. The ACCC, and TIO in particular, have critiqued the TCP Code Review iteration, claiming it does not sufficiently protect consumers. We can expect public consultation on the revised TCP Code to open shortly.
The TIO will soon be implementing changes to their reclassification processes, and publishing guidance material surrounding complaints handling processes, including what constitutes a consumer’s “reasonable attempt to contact a telecommunications service provider” before lodging a complaint with the TIO.
The IAA Public Policy Advisory Panel (PPAP) met for its quarterly meeting on 11 June where there was a spirited discussion on the future of co-regulation in the telecommunications industry, and what can be done to defend it. IAA will be calling for nominations for the PPAP later this year, so make sure to keep an eye open.
Our policy team has also been busy attending bilateral meetings with regulators and government over the period, including on matters related the ACMA’s compliance and enforcement approach, the National Office of Cybersecurity, and the federal government’s telecommunications strategy to 2035.
On the Internet Governance front, we are excited to share the news of the launch of the auIGF (previously NetThing) which will be held this year in Melbourne on 28-29 October. IAA has been a long-time supporter and participant of Australia’s Internet governance community, and encourage you to attend.
The Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy Australia (APIGA Australia) also recently launched. A program to foster the next generation of youth leaders in Australia’s Internet and digital ecosystem, APIGA Australia are providing fellowships to attend its inaugural event held in November 2024. You can read more about APIGA Australia on their website.
Also! Don’t forget your upcoming compliance obligations:
- CommCom TCP Code attestation, due 2 September 2024; and
- Fair Work’s ‘Right to disconnect’ policy will come into place for non-small business employers on 26 August 2024, and small-business employers from 26 August 2025. Eligible employees will have the right to refuse employer or third-party contact outside of working hours. Arnotts Technology Lawyers have prepared some legal documents to assist our Members with their compliance. You can access their ‘Right to disconnect’ Policy template, along with a FAQs document, via the ‘Right to Disconnect – Template Pack’ in the Legal Templates section of the IAA Member Portal.
As always, please get in touch to share any thoughts on any of the open and/or previous submissions as we really appreciate your feedback.
