76019 Broadcasting and Telecommunications Regulation

This subject addresses the law regulating the structure of electronic communications in Australia. The subject covers the regulation of broadcasting, telecommunications and online content.

It provides students with an understanding of the policy and legal framework and addresses such questions as who can provide these services; what regulatory obligations are imposed on businesses providing these services; how are these sectors regulated to ensure that competition is promoted and no persons have undue influence over communications in Australia; what rules are in place to ensure that Australians, regardless of wealth, location, etc. have access to communications services; and how does the law respond to the impact of new technology.

This is a very topical course with a changing menu of current issues. Some current issues include provision of broadband services and access across Australia, the switch to digital technology and the regulatory response as traditional broadcasting and telecommunications frameworks give way to a global multi-platform delivery environment.