The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has approved a regional network sharing agreement between Optus and TPG Telecom. The deal allows Optus to provide TPG with access to its regional radio access network while both companies share spectrum in regional Australia under a Multi Operator Core Network (MOCN) arrangement. This approval is expected to accelerate the rollout of 5G services in regional areas, with 1,500 5G sites planned by the end of 2028 and 2,444 by 2030.
This agreement marks a significant collaboration between two of Australia’s largest telecom operators. By pooling resources, both companies aim to deliver improved mobile services and faster 5G rollout to regional customers. The MOCN is set to benefit rural communities with faster internet speeds and greater network capacity. The agreement is initially set for 11 years, with an option for TPG to extend it for five more years, and it will be available to customers in early 2025, pending further regulatory approvals.
• ACCC approves Optus-TPG network and spectrum sharing agreement.
• The deal will accelerate regional 5G rollout, targeting 1,500 sites by 2028 and 2,444 by 2030.
• Optus will provide TPG access to its regional network; both companies will share spectrum.
• Agreement is initially for 11 years with a five-year extension option.
• MOCN availability for Optus and TPG customers is expected by early 2025.
“Today’s ACCC’s decision is a great outcome for regional Australia, with the rollout of 5G infrastructure to be completed by around two years earlier than previously planned,” said Optus Interim CEO Michael Venter.
“By sharing our infrastructure and technology, Optus and TPG will be able to deliver even more choice and better services for regional customers,” Venter added.
“This arrangement will allow Optus to press the fast forward button on 5G infrastructure roll-out to more regional communities,” said Venter.
