In a meeting with communications Minister Senator Richard Alston, Cable & Wireless Optus yesterday said it could provide improved telecommunications services to rural and regional Australia.
Telstra is currently responsible for ensuring an adequate level of telecommunications services are provided to all Australians under the government's Universal Service Obligation (USO).
An CWO executive said by using satellite technology, CWO would be able to provide better services to rural customers at a cheaper price.
Additionally, a variety of services, including local calls, long distance calls, internet access and Pay TV would be able run over the satellite technology, the spokepserson said.
According to CWO spokesperson, the Government is expected to release details of the tender for a new USU provider shortly.