The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has announced that it “will not oppose the proposed regional mobile network and spectrum sharing agreement” between Optus and TPG Telecom.
The decision follows the ACCC’s earlier stance that such an arrangement was viable, particularly in contrast to a similar agreement between TPG and Telstra that was rejected.
The agreement, which is expected to begin in “early 2025,” will cover both 4G and 5G services. It involves TPG authorizing Optus to use spectrum in the 700MHz, 1800MHz, 3600MHz, and 3700MHz bands within specified regional areas.
In turn, Optus will provide network services to TPG through shared mobile infrastructure in these regions. Additionally, TPG will either transfer or decommission a number of its existing mobile sites within the coverage area, with a list of specific sites slated for transfer to Optus.
Although the ACCC suggested several additional measures during its review—including offering open wholesale access, divesting certain spectrum, and committing to regional investments—the recommendations won’t be enforced as mandatory conditions.
TPG Telecom and Optus revealed their plan to share regional spectrum and mobile network infrastructure in April, following the collapse of TPG’s earlier attempt to forge a similar deal with Telstra.
The ACCC’s decision to block the TPG-Telstra agreement was influenced by the perceived feasibility of a successful arrangement between TPG and Optus.
