July 24, 2024

Barriers to Effective Dispute Resolution in the Telecommunications Industry

 

When your mobile phone service drops out or your internet isn’t working, what do you do? For many Australians, the answer is nothing.

But why?

This research,  commissioned by the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO),  explores who faces challenges with telco services in Australia and what the complaint experience entails.

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Summary

Many Australians have lost trust in the telecommunications industry’s ability to resolve issues. Too few raise complaints, and even fewer use free, independent dispute resolution services.

Telco Service Challenges in Australia

Who experiences difficulties

76% of Australians faced financial or non-financial difficulties in the past year.

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Rate of Problems

Problems with telecommunications services are common. 55% encountered at least one telco service challenge in the past year.

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Types of Issues

 

Complaint statistics

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%

46% of Australians with telco issues did not lodge a complaint.

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%

40% of people who did not complain believed a complaint wouldn’t help.

Awareness and understanding

TIO Awareness

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There is declining awareness of the TIO.

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People who use TIO are largely satisfied with the service.

How do we help more people get their telco problems fixed?

Industry, consumer groups, dispute resolution bodies and regulators all have a role to play to improve telco services. All parties have an interest in Australians having access to reliable and affordable telecommunications services, which includes effective complaints processes.

CPRC welcomes the opportunity to work further on this issue with industry, government, regulators, policy makers, academia and the community sector. 

If you are in one the above groups and would like a one-on-one briefing for your organisation, contact our team now.


This research was commissioned by the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO).
Learn more about TIO at TIO.com.au

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