Optus to expand 3G coverage

January 30, 2007

Optus, the Australian unit of Singapore Telecommunications, has unveiled plans to expand its 3G mobile network to cover 96% of Australia.

Optus said the network will be extended to areas outside of the country's main cities, in order to compete with rival operator Telstra.

The company, which intends to start building the new network as soon as possible, will operate it in the 2100MHz range, but will also look into using the 900MHz frequency range for rural and remote locations and smaller regional centres.

The rollout is expected to cost up to AUD800m if constructed entirely at 2100MHz, or around AUD500m if 900MHz is possible.

While the new network will be built and owned by Optus, the company will also continue to co-own its current 2100MHz 3G network with mobile operator Vodafone in city areas.