The ACMA has directed Starlink Internet Services Pte Ltd to comply with the Telecommunications Consumer Protections (TCP) Code after the company did not specify the end date of a ‘limited time offer’ advertised on its website.
Under the TCP Code, if a special promotion is advertised as being available for a limited time only, telcos must be transparent about the date the promotion will end.
Following a consumer complaint, the ACMA undertook an investigation into the promotion available on Starlink’s website between 1 June and 26 July 2023. The investigation found that the promotion, which offered discounted hardware and high-speed internet plans, did not include an end date as required.
When advertising special promotions, telcos must include information about important limitations to allow consumers to make informed choices.
In late July 2023, Starlink amended the promotion on its website to include an end date. The special promotion has since ended.
Telcos may face penalties of up to $250,000 for breaching ACMA directions to comply with the TCP Code.