Optus has regained momentum and share in the broadband market adding 50,000 broadband customers this quarter - bringing the total number of broadband customers to over 550,000.

"Optus is challenging the market once again - our simple flat rate plans, faster download speeds and generous data allowances have proved popular with customers," Warren Hardy, Acting Managing Director, Optus Consumer said.

"We are looking forward to an even more promising quarter ahead with our recently introduced $19.95 per month broadband plan and 30-day broadband trial offer.

"Optus has certainly turned up the heat in broadband and early indications show that the $19.95 price point has struck a chord with consumers," Mr Hardy said.

Unlike other broadband offers, the Optus Easy Start plan at $19.95 does not charge for excess usage. At $19.95 a month customers are enjoying streaming video, online gaming in real-time and live audio transfers - all without the frustrations of delays and excess charges.

Optus' innovative 30-day trial offer lets customers sample the features of broadband and pay no cancellation fee if they find broadband isn't for them.

Optus has also rolled out tailored broadband plans to its small and medium business customers. These plans are a clear demonstration of how Optus is committed to offering competitive monthly business rates, faster download speeds and fantastic value on data to SMBs.

"These are just some of the many initiatives Optus has put in place to drive broadband penetration in Australia. We have put forward a solid broadband offer for the masses and we will capture market share as a result," Mr Hardy said.

This achievement comes as Optus migrates customers to its $150 million broadband network which delivers two premium services: Optus DSL Direct (broadband services) and Optus Local Direct (home telephony services).

Optus is confident that its innovative plans offering clear value for money and the increased footprint will reinforce the company's position in broadband.

Optus will announce its fourth quarter results on 4 May 2006. These results will include broadband subscriber numbers of 546,000 as at 31 March, 2006.

Media contact:
Sheila Dhillon
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: +61 2 9342 9021