Initial expenditure review · March 2026
The original four-part review includes the context, methodology and international benchmarking. For benchmarking, start with Part B, section 1.4.
Joint advisory work
Telecommunications expertise for the ACCC expenditure review
KA contributed telecommunications expertise to HoustonKemp’s review of NBN Co expenditure for the ACCC’s replacement module process.
THE CASE
The decision in context.
The context
The ACCC required independent advice on the prudence and efficiency of NBN Co’s expenditure under its Special Access Undertaking.
Our contribution
Working alongside HoustonKemp, KA contributed industry expertise to the assessment of network investment and operating expenditure. The review tested the justification for spending against need, feasible alternatives and efficient delivery. The published reports set out the joint review’s analysis and recommendations.
What the work provided
Advice grounded in industry experience
The joint review provided evidence and recommendations to inform the ACCC’s regulatory assessment. It demonstrates KA’s ability to connect telecommunications technology and operations with the commercial questions underlying major expenditure decisions.
PUBLISHED BY THE ACCC
Read the reports.
The initial review and subsequent advice
cover different stages of the assessment.
Service-standard advice · August 2026
Further advice on the cost implications of proposed benchmark service standards.
Final determination · August 2026
The ACCC’s determination, reasons and supporting advice, including the review of submissions on the draft determination. These documents complement the initial review.
EXPLORE RELATED WORK