Review of the Australian Communications and Media Authority—Terms of Reference

Comprehensive review of ACMA's objectives, functions, and resource base to ensure fitness for the digital era.

Venture Insights · Venture Insights1 January 2015Period: FY154 min read

Last updated 10 June 2026

$1 billion↓

Annual business cost reduction target under Government deregulation agenda

2005→

Year the ACMA was established as a converged regulator

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Abstract

This report outlines the terms of reference for a comprehensive review of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). Established in 2005, the regulator faces a rapidly evolving environment driven by the National Broadband Network and digital platforms like Google and YouTube. The review, conducted by the Department of Communications, aims to assess if the ACMA's structure and $1 billion deregulation targets are fit-for-purpose for the current and future communications regulatory landscape.

Key Takeaways

The Australian Government is conducting a 'root and branch' review of the ACMA to ensure it is fit-for-purpose for the digital age.
The review is driven by a $1 billion annual deregulation target aimed at reducing regulatory costs for businesses.
Key areas of focus include the ACMA's resource base and whether functions can be transferred to the private sector or other agencies.

stakeholder implications · PDF download

Frequently Asked Questions

The current regulatory framework was established in 2005 and is no longer optimized for a market dominated by the National Broadband Network and global digital platforms. The review seeks to align the agency with a $1 billion annual deregulation target intended to lower compliance costs for industry participants.

The Department of Communications is scheduled to deliver its findings to the Minister by the end of 2015. Industry should prepare for the implementation of preferred reform alternatives during the 2016-17 financial year.

The review specifically examines transferring existing functions to the private sector or other agencies to meet the $1 billion cost reduction goal. It also assesses the efficiency of the agency's resource base and its board structure, which currently allows for 1 to 7 members.

Review of the Australian Communications and Media Authority—Terms of Reference

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