Complaints from the industry surrounding the short time frame for the national broadband network tender appear to have paid off, with the government announcing an extension today.

The announcement said that "parties participating in the National Broadband Network process will have 12 weeks to consider network information from the date all material is made available."

"Telstra has provided some network information however despite its best efforts some information is not yet available. The provision of network information is vital to allow potential proponents to build the network to compete on an equal basis."

The Competitive Carrier's Coalition welcomed the announcement, stating that it was "necessary to protect the integrity of the bidding process."

"While prospective bidders clearly would like even more time, they now at least have the certainty that delays in the release of this information by Telstra will not make it impossible for them to construct competitive bids."

Links:

• Media Release  (DBCDE, 22 May 2008)