Industry bodies develop codes and submit them to us. Once we approve them, we include them in the register.
The purpose of the codes and standards is to promote:
- the long-term interests of those who use of telecommunications services
- the efficiency and international competitiveness of the Australian telecommunications industry
- the ability of the industry to regulate their work
The telecommunications industry can develop new codes or vary existing codes on any telecommunications matter.
If we decide a new code is necessary, we may ask a group that represents industry to develop one. If they don’t develop a code or it doesn’t meet our criteria, we may develop an industry standard instead. Industry must then meet the standard.
Our role in helping the industry comply
If someone breaks a rule in a code, we can:
- issue formal warnings
- direct industry participants to comply
- take further action if they do not comply after a formal warning or direction