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ACCC asks market participants for comment on Foxtel’s undertaking for Austar acquisition

By  |  March 7, 2012

The ACCC is launching market consultation on the undertaking Foxtel proposes for its planned acquisition of Austar. The undertaking prohibits Foxtel from entering into exclusive content agreements for internet protocol television rights to “attractive content.” The intent is to lower barriers to entry to the national market for supplying subscription television services and telecommunications, thereby enhancing competition. In addition, the undertaking requires Foxtel to provide necessary signal access to linear channels distributed by independent content suppliers to third parties. Foxtel’s Special Access Undertaking will also be extended so that content suppliers can gain access to Austar subscribers in addition to Foxtel subscribers.

Comments on the undertaking will be accepted by March 20, 2012. The ACCC will make a decision on the tentative date of March 29.

Full content: ACCC Press Release

 

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