The future of the public phones
Telstra says it wants to clarify the facts about Telstra-operated payphones and encourage the community to provide feedback.
Spokesman David Moffatt says that these days, more people have mobile phones, fewer people use payphones, and many private companies operate payphones.
“Telstra is not considering removing payphones required for public health and safety reasons, stand-alone payphones in remote areas, or those subsidised by the universal service obligation,” Mr Moffatt said.
“Of the Telstra payphones that we are considering removing, a large number are in metropolitan areas in sites with more than one phone. Of the remainder, the majority are located on private property and could be replaced by privately-owned payphones.”
Telstra says it will continue to:
- Put a clear notice on any payphone it intends to remove or relocate
- Provide three months notice and proactively consult the affected community
- Take into account the response of local government, parliamentarians and community groups; and consider each situation on a case-by-case basis.
Public submissions can be made by by completing a feedback form at www.telstra.com.au/payphoneservices/contactus.htm; calling 1800 011 433; or writing to Payphone Siting Manager, Locked Bag 6658, Sydney NSW 1100.
