The ACCC declared the unconditioned local loop service (ULLS) in July 1999. The ULLS involves the use of unconditioned cable, primarily copper pairs, between end users and a telephone exchange where the copper terminates.
As a new service, there was considerable debate in the industry about the appropriate pricing of the ULLS. In this context, the ACCC considered it appropriate to inform the market about various methodological issues surrounding the pricing of this service and to provide some views about the various pricing claims that have been made in relation to this service.
A discussion paper was released in August 2000 to provide preliminary guidance and assistance to both Telstra and access seekers in negotiating access for the supply of ULLS.
In response to the discussion paper, submissions were received from several interested parties and these views were taken into account in developing the final report released in April 2002.