Optus has welcomed a decision by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to allow it and TPG Telecom to go ahead with its proposed regional Multi Operator Core Network (MOCN) arrangement.
On September 5, the ACCC said they would not oppose the deal. Under the arrangement, Optus will provide TPG Telecom with access to its regional radio access network and they will share spectrum in regional Australia.
The telcos say regional customers and communities will benefit from Optus’s plans to accelerate 5G roll-out in the regions, fast-tracking the number of 5G sites in those areas to 1500 by the end of 2028 and 2,444 by the end of 2030.
The agreements will allow TPG to provide better coverage in regional areas, which will likely enhance its ability to compete during the term of the agreements, improving choice for regional consumers,” said the ACCC Commissioner Philip Williams.
The non-exclusive MOCN agreement has an initial term of 11 years and includes an option for TPG Telecom to extend the agreement for a further five years.
Today’s ACCC’s decision is a great outcome for regional Australia, with the rollout of 5G infrastructure to be completed by around two years earlier than previously planned,” said Optus Interim CEO Micharl Venter. “By sharing our infrastructure and technology, Optus and TPG will be able to deliver even more choice and better services for regional customers. This arrangement will allow Optus to press the fast forward button on 5G infrastructure roll-out to more regional communities. It will also provide Optus with access to more spectrum so regional customers can experience 5G’s fast speeds, low latency, and increased capacity.
“This is so important for customers given how essential mobile services are to our daily lives, whether it’s browsing the internet, connecting with friends and family on social media or streaming our favourite movies and TV shows,” he added. “We are very excited to be able to progress this network sharing agreement following today’s decision and to continue delivering for our regional customers.”
Subject to remaining regulatory approvals, the MOCN is expected to be available to TPG and Optus customers in early 2025.
