The mobile phone market

The mobile phone market is made up of organisations known as carriers that own the infrastructure or network that mobile phones need in order to work. These carriers sell the use of their mobile phone network directly to the public or through agents. Carriers also sell in bulk to other businesses known as carriage service providers, who in turn resell to the public. Any organisation that can sell you access to a mobile phone network will be referred to as a network service provider in 'Just the facts'.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is a government body that regulates both telecommunications and radiocommunications in Australia. It's involved in:

• issuing licenses to carriers
• making sure that organisations within the industry comply with mandatory standards and codes
• ensuring that policies are in place to protect consumers.

Industry codes and practices are guidelines that are used by organisations within an industry. The codes and practices for the telecommunications industry are developed through the Australian Communications Industry Forum (ACIF).

The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) is a free, independent and informal service that can help people who have problems with their telephone or Internet service in Australia. However, you must try and resolve the problem yourself before contacting the TIO.