Telecommunications Equipment, Systems and Services

About the Inquiry

In its terms of reference, the Industry Commission was asked to report on the Australian telecommunications equipment, systems and services industries, in particular:

1. the current structure and competitiveness of the industries, drawing international comparisons where appropriate;
2. local and global trends, and the likely effect on the Australian industry of:
   1. technological change and the convergence of technology and corporate structures; and
   2. transfer of technology and capital between different business sectors and nations;
3. the effect of existing and proposed international trade agreements on the industries, both in Australia and internationally;
4. any measures which could be undertaken to remove impediments to the industries' efficiency and development, including to Australian exports, or otherwise contribute to the efficiency and development of the industries;
5. the factors which are assisting and hindering the emergence of new high technology firms compared to other developed countries and any measures which could be taken to improve Australia's performance; and
6. any structural imbalance within the industry contributing to the current account deficit and measures which could be taken to overcome the imbalance.

In addition the Commission was asked to evaluate current Government programs aimed at improving the industries' performance and report on ways in which that assistance could be better used to promote the long term development of the industry and the economy; and

1. report on implementation strategies for any measures recommended by the Commission;
2. have regard to the Government's decisions on the post-1997 regulatory arrangements and the Government's information industries olicy initiatives;
3. take account of any recent studies undertaken; and
4. have regard to the established economic, social and environmental objectives of the Australian Government.