Telecommunications Numbering Plan Amendment (No. 2) 1998

Overview

The Telecommunications Numbering Plan Amendment (No. 2) 1998 was introduced to address the need for adjustments to the telecommunications numbering plan as originally set out in the Telecommunications Numbering Plan 1997. This legislative instrument, made under section 455 of the Telecommunications Act 1997, was enacted by the Australian Communications Authority, with Tony Shaw as Chairman and Robert Horton as Deputy Chairman, on 12 June 1998. The primary objective of this amendment was to modify certain special services numbers within the numbering plan, ensuring that the telecommunications infrastructure could adapt to the evolving demands of the industry. This included changes to the availability and usage of specific number prefixes, with a focus on operator services and their respective call charges. The amendments sought to provide clarity and efficiency in the allocation and use of telecommunications numbers, thereby supporting the broader goals of the Telecommunications Act 1997 in regulating and facilitating the telecommunications sector in Australia.

Scope and Application

The Telecommunications Numbering Plan Amendment (No. 2) 1998 is an instrument made under the authority of the Telecommunications Act 1997 and applies to the telecommunications sector across Australia. This amendment specifically targets the telecommunications numbering plan, which governs the allocation and assignment of telephone numbers and other telecommunications services within the country. The amendment adjusts the number prefixes for certain operator services, effectively omitting the “013” prefix and extending the availability of the “0175” prefix until 30 June 1999. The changes outlined in the amendment are designed to streamline the numbering plan and facilitate the transition to new prefixes. The amendment applies nationwide and is intended to ensure a consistent and orderly renumbering process. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions within the scope of this particular amendment, and the changes are effective from the date of gazettal. The Australian Communications Authority, as the regulatory body, retains the power to make further adjustments and provide further clarifications through subordinate instruments as necessary.

Key Provisions

The Telecommunications Numbering Plan Amendment (No. 2) 1998 primarily serves to adjust and update the Telecommunications Numbering Plan 1997. One of the key changes (sections 4.2 and 4.3) involves the reclassification and renumbering of specific telephone services. Specifically, it introduces a new number prefix “013” for operator services, while omitting the previous “013” prefix. This new “013” prefix is designated for operator services, with a call charge limited to a low rate, a three-digit number format, and a restriction that it should not be used after 30 June 1999 due to the renumbering process. Additionally, the instrument extends the period for using the “0175” prefix, originally set to expire on 30 June 1998, to 30 June 1999 (section 4.3). This legislative instrument imposes several obligations and requirements on entities involved in telecommunications. For instance, it mandates that service providers must cease using the old “013” prefix by 30 June 1999 and transition to the new “013” prefix as specified. Furthermore, it necessitates that all communications using the “0175” prefix must adhere to the extended deadline of 30 June 1999. These amendments are designed to ensure a smooth transition and avoid service disruptions as the numbering plan is updated. In terms of consequences for non-compliance, the Act does not explicitly detail offences, penalties, or civil/criminal consequences within the provided text. However, in the broader context of Australian legislation, failure to comply with amendments to the Telecommunications Numbering Plan could potentially result in enforcement actions by the Australian Communications Authority. Such actions may include fines or other penalties as prescribed by the Telecommunications Act 1997. It is important for entities governed by this Act to ensure they adhere to the stipulated timelines and requirements to avoid any adverse repercussions.