Telstra Exchange: Warmambool

Mr Fletcher asked the Minister representing the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, in writing, on 5 February 2013:

In respects of a fire in Telstra telephone exchange in Warrnambool, Victoria, in late November 2012, what investigations has the Government and/or its agencies undertaken, and what were the outcomes.

Mr Albanese: The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy has provided the following answer to the honourable member's question:

On 28 November the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy announced that an inquiry would be held to identify what lessons can be learnt from the Warrnambool Telstra exchange fire that left more than 60,000 residents without fixed line telecommunications services.

The inquiry is being conducted by the Department of Broadband, Communications, and the Digital Economy. Further details about the inquiry including its Terms of Reference and public consultation process can be found on its website www.dbcde.gov.au/warrnambool_inquiry.

It would be premature to comment on the potential outcomes of the inquiry before it has completed its investigations.