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A time for change – Three years of systemic investigations in review
22 June 2023
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) today released the report ‘A time for change – Three years of systemic investigations in review’, calling for improved consumer protections through stronger regulation in the telco sector, and the establishment of a registration scheme for telcos.
The report makes four key recommendations where the telecommunications regulatory framework and industry could evolve. These recommendations aim to reduce and prevent problems from reoccurring, and provide better protection for consumers who are vulnerable.
The four recommendations are:
- Telcos need to do more to reduce barriers for consumers seeking help.
- Improved regulation would help reduce unexpected debt and financial hardship.
- Direct regulation should play a primary role in protecting consumers that are vulnerable.
- A telco registration scheme with minimum entry requirements would protect consumers.
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