On 21 February 2022, Telstra, Australia's largest mobile
network operator (“MNO”), and TPG, the
country's third largest MNO, announced a long-term active
network sharing deal (referred to as a Multi-Operator Core Network
commercial agreement). The deal is subject to approval by
Australia's competition regulator, the Australian Competition
and Consumer Commission (“ACCC”) and
faces staunch opposition from Singtel Optus, the country's
second largest MNO.
The deal involves Telstra and TPG sharing RF spectrum and active
infrastructure across 17% of Australia's population coverage.
It has the potential to shape Australia's telecommunications
sector for years to come, particularly in regional and remote areas
where limited coverage and a lack of competition have had a
significant impact on consumers.
