Netspace Networks complains to ACCC about Telstra

According to a statement to the press, Netspace Networks notified the ACCC of an access dispute on 1 April 2008 relating to Telstra's supply of the Line Sharing Service (LSS).

The LSS allows two carriers to provide separate services over a single metallic pair or line. The higher frequency part of the line is used by the access seeker to supply broadband (DSL) services, while the access provider simultaneously supplies a PSTN voice service over the same portion of the unconditioned local loop.

The ACCC has commenced the arbitration process for this access dispute. Given that the legislation contemplates that arbitrations be conducted in private, the ACCC will not be making any public comment at this stage.

The ACCC is vested with arbitration powers enabling it to make directions and 'do all things necessary for the speedy hearing and determination of an access dispute'. For the ACCC to engage in arbitration, an access seeker and/or an access provider must notify the ACCC of an access dispute.

Where a dispute cannot be resolved after private negotiations, mediation and/or conciliation, either of the access parties may refer the matter to the ACCC. Arbitration by the ACCC would be considered as a final solution for the parties in dispute. Where the ACCC is notified of an access dispute, the ACCC must determine the matter, unless it decides to terminate the arbitration or the notification is otherwise withdrawn.