The Commerce Commission has released draft guidelines to provide greater clarity for the telecommunications industry on how the Commission exercises its powers and functions under the Telecommunications Act. The guidelines set out the key factors that the Commission takes into account in making regulatory decisions for the telecommunications sector.

The draft guidelines are based on the Commission's practical experience working with the Act since its implementation in 2001, particularly the amendments to the Act in 2006.

In issuing the updated draft guidelines, the Commission is seeking to promote regulatory certainty in telecommunications markets.

The Commission seeks feedback from stakeholders and interested parties on the draft guidelines. Submissions are due 18 September 2009, 5pm. A final version of the guidelines will be released following the submission process.

The draft guidelines are available on the Commission's website, www.comcom.govt.nz under Regulated Industries/Telecommunications/Resources/Guidelines.