Hutchison 3 to use Telstra Next G

In a complete reversal of previous policy, Telstra will now allow a third party telco access to its Next G network at a cost of $120 million a year.

In a complete reversal of previous policy, Telstra will now allow a third party telco access to its Next G network at a cost of $120 million a year. The new arrangement will allow Hutchinson 3 access to the Telstra Next G network in areas where it does not have coverage, thus allowing the telco to compete for customers in 96 percent of the country.

Hutchison also plans to further extend its network by 4 percent over the next 12 months, extending its 3 network coverage area to 60 percent of Australia.

Speaking with The Australian, Telstra spokesman Peter Taylor denied that the deal was an about face for the company: “We have always said that we would consider commercial proposals for wholesale access to our 3G 850 Next G network and we have done just that.

“This deal allows us to build on a revenue stream from a long-term valued wholesale customer by offering a limited form of 3G 850 roaming.”

The roaming arrangement with Hutchison 3 is expected to commence next year.

Source: The Australian