Changes to Consumer Protection Code Welcomed
Sydney, 7 March 2016 – Communications Compliance has welcomed the changes to the code compliance framework contained in Chapter 9 of the Telecommunications Consumer Protections (TCP) Code - a revised version of which was registered by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) on 4 March 2016. Communications Compliance is the compliance monitoring body established by industry in 2012 under the TCP Code.
Deirdre Mason, Chair of Communications Compliance, commented that:“The changes to Chapter 9 have successfully addressed some of the challenges faced by carriage service providers (CSPs) in terms of fulfilling their compliance obligations, challenges that we have had first-hand visibility of in our role as the Code compliance monitor.
“The introduction of dual lodgement windows and the streamlining of compliance documentation in particular should allow for greater flexibility and reduced reporting burdens on CSPs who are required to lodge documents with Communications Compliance.
Telecommunications providers that offer services to residential and small business customers, irrespective of whether they have previously lodged documents with CommCom, will need to register their details with Communications Alliance Ltd (CA) by 3 May 2016.
The TCP Code was revised by a broad stakeholder group including industry and consumer representatives, convened by Communications Alliance.
Communications CEO, John Stanton, said that the changes to Chapter 9 of the code are appropriate also in the light of year-on-year improvements in industry compliance with the consumer protection provisions and the massive reduction in complaints to the TIO, which have fallen to a nine-year low.
All queries relating to the lodgement of compliance documents should be directed to CommCom at cspservices@commcom.com.au
ABOUT COMMUNICATIONS ALLIANCE Communications Alliance is the primary communications industry body in Australia. Its membership is drawn from a wide cross-section of the communications industry, including carriers, carriage and internet service providers, content providers, platform providers, equipment vendors, IT companies, consultants and business groups.
Its vision is to be the most influential association in Australian communications, co-operatively initiating programs that promote sustainable industry development, innovation and growth, while generating positive outcomes for customers and society.
The prime mission of Communications Alliance is to create a co-operative stakeholder environment that allows the industry to take the lead on initiatives which grow the Australian communications industry, enhance the connectivity of all Australians and foster the highest standards of business behaviour. For more details about Communications Alliance, see www.commsalliance.com.au.
Media information contact:
info@commsalliance.com.au