Melbourne, Australia – February 21, 2005
ACCC’S TELSTRA PENALTY WILL NOT STOP ANTI COMPETITIVE CONDUCT
Melbourne, Australia – February 21, 2005 - Primus Telecom today commended the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for a genuine attempt to rein in Telstra’s anti-competitive broadband pricing conduct.
However, Primus Telecom Regulatory Affairs Manager, Ian Slattery said the rebate agreed to could not deter anti-competitive conduct and was the equivalent of ‘parking fine’.
“Given the damage that Telstra’s conduct caused the industry as it reaped outstanding benefits, the $6.5 million Telstra now has to pay could be characterized as an excellent investment.
“This demonstrates the failure of the telecommunications competition regime and the need for its urgent rehabilitation before Telstra is unleashed as a fully privatized entity,” he said.
About Primus Telecom
Primus Telecom is Australia’s fourth largest fixed-line telecommunications carrier. The Company offers a comprehensive range of voice, data, Internet and web hosting products, servicing both residential and business sectors. The Primus network offers nationwide coverage through its own backbone network with facilities in 73 cities across Australia. The network enables the Company to provide nationwide long distance services and local call Internet access. Primus operates its own fibre network in the five major capital cities, delivering a range of business direct-connect services including ISDN, ATM and Broadband DSL. Global connectivity is provided through an extensive voice, IP and ATM network operated by the parent company, United States-based Primus Telecommunications Group, Incorporated (NASDAQ: PRTL). Primus Australia news and information are available at the Company's Web site at www.primus.com.au