CONTENTS
RECOMMENDATIONS
CHAPTER 1
Introduction
Background
The Committee's Inquiry
Should Telstra be Privatised?
The Benefits of Privatisation
Conclusion
CHAPTER 2
Accountability and Financial Impact
The Accountability Regime
Corporations Law and Australian Stock Exchange Listing Rules
Memorandum and Articles of Association
Proposed New Arrangements
Memorandum and Articles of Association
Discussion of Issues
Adequacy of Current Accountability Arrangements
Conclusion
Impact on Public Sector Finance
CHAPTER 3
Regulatory Measures Customer Service
Customer safeguards provided by the Bill
The Universal Service Obligation
Universal Service Plans
Customer Service Guarantee
Expanded powers to the ACA
Untimed local calls
Definition of standard telephone service
Delivery and quality of services to Rural & Regional Areas
Quality Service At what price?
Small Business
Rural small business
What do small businesses need in telecommunications?
Rural Schools
Quality of service
Conclusion
CHAPTER 4
Regulatory Measures Enhancing Competition and Controlling Foreign
Oownership
Introduction
Adequacy of the existing regulatory scheme to promote competition
The status quo
Is Telstra a natural monopoly?
Price of access to Telstra's network
Price discrimination
Confidentiality of access agreements
Right of action under Part XIB of the Trade Practices Act 1974
Telstra's position
Comment
Conclusion
Foreign Ownership Controls
Current Arrangements
Proposed New Arrangements
Discussion of Issues
Conclusion
CHAPTER 5
Other Issues
Effects of privatisation on employment and economic activity
Industry development plans
Research and Development
Conclusion
APPENDIX 1
APPENDIX 2
APPENDIX 3
APPENDIX 4
APPENDIX 5
APPENDIX 6
MINORITY REPORT BY ALP SENATORSMINORITY
REPORT BY AUSTRALIAN DEMOCRATS AND (WA) GREENS