• Optus has reached a significant milestone in its satellite operation. Since the launch of A1 in 1985, Optus has accumulated 1,000 transponder years of service with all of its existing satellites.
• Typically a satellite will have approximately 15-24 transponder capacity, therefore with the total of Optus' existing satellites (Optus A3, B1, B3 and C1) and retired satellites (Optus A1 and A2), over the course of 20 years, Optus has accumulated over 1,000 transponder years of service.
• Optus provides its customers with greater satellite access than any other player in Asia Pacific which positions it as the leading satellite operator in the region. Together with SingTel, Optus offers customers access to more than 28 satellites covering Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Europe, Africa, China, India, Hawaii and the West Coast of USA.
• Optus D1 Satellite will launch in 2006 from the Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, French Guiana and Optus D2 Satellite is planned for 2007. Optus' D-series satellites will ensure the continuity and growth of its satellite business in the Australia and New Zealand markets.

Media contact:
Tracy Monkman
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: 02 9342 5302