Investigation reveals challenges faced by telcos when meeting the needs of consumers impacted by family violence
“Meeting the needs of consumers impacted by family violence”, a report by the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman, provides the findings of a systemic investigation.
The investigation found the needs of consumers experiencing family violence were not always met by the telcos’ standard systems and processes. The report details how the unauthorised disclosure of personal information can have dangerous consequences. It also reveals the impact of how an inflexible approach to providing the right financial help can contribute to financial hardship.
Five telcos shared their experiences and insights in supplying phone and internet services to consumers impacted by family violence. One telco highlighted the difficulties when asking questions of a vulnerable customer while avoiding potentially triggering statements. Another reported the difficulties hearing from consumers who are scared for their imminent physical safety and that of their children.
On publishing the report, Ombudsman Judi Jones says her organisation is here to help both consumers and telcos. “Our understanding and approach to the impact of phone and internet complaints in family violence continues to evolve. While the number of these complaints is relatively low, the detriment suffered is often disproportionately high.
“This report makes recommendations for telcos wanting to improve their service to better meet the needs of their customers experiencing this vulnerability. I encourage providers to think deeply about changes they can make to best support consumers impacted by family violence.
“We acknowledge the good work of family violence specialists, the telco industry and consumer advocates in this space. We are all on the same journey as many organisations in improving our understanding of the impacts of family violence. We will continue to monitor and evaluate our approach as our understanding evolves.”
The report includes tips to help phone and internet consumers and telcos.
Tips for consumers include:
- Tell your telco if you think your safety is at risk and ask them about their privacy processes.
- Ask your telco for ways you can make your account more secure.
- Tell your telco if you are in financial hardship.
Download the consumer tip sheet.
Tips for telcos include:
- Work with family violence experts to develop training for staff.
- Allow staff to offer highly flexible payment arrangements.
- Review account securities and listen to consumers about what they need to stay safe.
Download the telco tip sheet.
If the phone or internet problem can’t be fixed with the telco, contact the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman, we’re here to help.
If you need support because you or someone you know is experiencing family violence call 1800 RESPECT.
ENDS
Notes to editors
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About the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman provides a free and independent dispute resolution service for residential consumers and small businesses who have an unresolved complaint about their phone or internet service.
Consumers and small businesses should contact tio.com.au or 1800 062 058.
The Telecommunications Industry Sector
Government and the regulators set policy and regulations for the telecommunications sector.
The Telecommunications industry regulators are the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) acma.gov.au Media enquiries to (02) 9334 7719 or media@acma.gov.au and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC): accc.gov.au. Media enquiries to 1300 138 917 or media@accc.gov.au. After hours 0408 995 408.
Peak Bodies
Communications Alliance is the peak body for Australian communications industry: commsalliance.com.au. Media enquiries to Sefiani Communications sefiani.com.au or 0431 478 558.
The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) is Australia’s peak communications consumer organisation representing individuals, small businesses and not-for-profit groups as consumers of communications products and services, accan.org.au Media enquiries to 0409 966 931 or 02 9288 4000.
Acknowledgement of Country
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, culture and community. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and extend our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples from all nations of this land.