{"id":"C2004A05149","name":"Telecommunications (Numbering Charges) Act 1997","slug":"telecommunications-numbering-charges-act-1997","collection":"act","jurisdiction":"commonwealth","status":"in_force","isInForce":true,"actNumber":"51 of 1997","makingDate":null,"administeringDepartment":null,"currentVersion":{"id":55422,"registerId":"commonwealth-C2004A05149-1775103666079","compilationNumber":null,"startDate":"2026-04-02","status":"InForce","reasons":null,"registeredAt":null},"sections":[{"sectionNumber":"Part 1","sectionType":"part","heading":"Introduction","content":"## Part 1—Introduction","sortOrder":0},{"sectionNumber":"1","sectionType":"section","heading":"Short title","content":"#### 1 Short title\n\n  This Act may be cited as the Telecommunications (Numbering Charges) Act 1997.","sortOrder":1},{"sectionNumber":"2","sectionType":"section","heading":"Commencement","content":"#### 2 Commencement\n\n  (1) Parts 1 and 4 commence on the day on which this Act receives the Royal Assent.\n  (2) Parts 2 and 3 commence on 1 July 1997.","sortOrder":2},{"sectionNumber":"3","sectionType":"section","heading":"Act to bind Crown","content":"#### 3 Act to bind Crown\n\n  This Act binds the Crown in right of each of the States, of the Australian Capital Territory and of the Northern Territory.","sortOrder":3},{"sectionNumber":"4","sectionType":"section","heading":"Extension to eligible Territories","content":"#### 4 Extension to eligible Territories\n\n  (1) This Act extends to each eligible Territory.\n  (2) The operation of this Act in relation to Norfolk Island is not affected by the amendments made by Division 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 5 to the Territories Legislation Amendment Act 2016.","sortOrder":4},{"sectionNumber":"5","sectionType":"section","heading":"Interpretation","content":"#### 5 Interpretation\n\n  In this Act:\n\n> ACMA means the Australian Communications and Media Authority.\n\n> allocation, in relation to a number, means the allocation of the number in accordance with:\n\n    (a) an allocation system; or\n    (b) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (c) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n> allocation system means a system determined under section 463 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> carriage service provider has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> eligible Territory has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> number has the same meaning as in Division 2 of Part 22 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> numbering plan has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> numbering scheme manager has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> ported, in relation to a number issued to a customer for a carriage service, means that the carriage service provider or the carrier network involved in providing the service, or both, is changed while the customer continues to receive the carriage service using the number.\n\n> standard telephone service has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> surrendered, in relation to a number, means surrendered in accordance with:\n\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n> transferred has the meanings given by section 5A.\n\n> withdrawn, in relation to a number, means withdrawn in accordance with:\n\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.","sortOrder":5},{"sectionNumber":"5A","sectionType":"section","heading":"Meaning of transferred","content":"#### 5A Meaning of transferred\n\n  (1A) A number is transferred if it is transferred in accordance with:\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n  (1) A number is transferred between 2 carriage service providers when the number is ported from one of the providers to the other provider.\n  (2) Two carriage service providers may enter into a binding written agreement that provides that a number is transferred from one of them to the other. The carriage service providers must jointly give the ACMA written notice of the transfer, and also give the notice to the numbering scheme manager if there is one. The transfer takes effect on the later of the following:\n    (a) the day on which the notice is given to the ACMA;\n    (b) another day specified in the notice.\n  (3) A number is transferred at the time worked out under subsection (1), and not at the time worked out under subsection (2), if the number is ported from one carriage service provider to another when:\n    (a) an agreement described in subsection (2) and relating to the number is in force; or\n    (b) a notice relating to the number has been given as described in that subsection.","sortOrder":6},{"sectionNumber":"Part 2","sectionType":"part","heading":"Allocation charges","content":"An Act to impose charges in relation to numbers allocated to certain carriage service providers under the Telecommunications Act 1997\n\n## Part 1—Introduction\n\n#### 1 Short title\n\n  This Act may be cited as the Telecommunications (Numbering Charges) Act 1997.\n\n#### 2 Commencement\n\n  (1) Parts 1 and 4 commence on the day on which this Act receives the Royal Assent.\n  (2) Parts 2 and 3 commence on 1 July 1997.\n\n#### 3 Act to bind Crown\n\n  This Act binds the Crown in right of each of the States, of the Australian Capital Territory and of the Northern Territory.\n\n#### 4 Extension to eligible Territories\n\n  (1) This Act extends to each eligible Territory.\n  (2) The operation of this Act in relation to Norfolk Island is not affected by the amendments made by Division 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 5 to the Territories Legislation Amendment Act 2016.\n\n#### 5 Interpretation\n\n  In this Act:\n\n> ACMA means the Australian Communications and Media Authority.\n\n> allocation, in relation to a number, means the allocation of the number in accordance with:\n\n    (a) an allocation system; or\n    (b) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (c) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n> allocation system means a system determined under section 463 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> carriage service provider has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> eligible Territory has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> number has the same meaning as in Division 2 of Part 22 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> numbering plan has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> numbering scheme manager has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> ported, in relation to a number issued to a customer for a carriage service, means that the carriage service provider or the carrier network involved in providing the service, or both, is changed while the customer continues to receive the carriage service using the number.\n\n> standard telephone service has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> surrendered, in relation to a number, means surrendered in accordance with:\n\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n> transferred has the meanings given by section 5A.\n\n> withdrawn, in relation to a number, means withdrawn in accordance with:\n\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n#### 5A Meaning of transferred\n\n  (1A) A number is transferred if it is transferred in accordance with:\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n  (1) A number is transferred between 2 carriage service providers when the number is ported from one of the providers to the other provider.\n  (2) Two carriage service providers may enter into a binding written agreement that provides that a number is transferred from one of them to the other. The carriage service providers must jointly give the ACMA written notice of the transfer, and also give the notice to the numbering scheme manager if there is one. The transfer takes effect on the later of the following:\n    (a) the day on which the notice is given to the ACMA;\n    (b) another day specified in the notice.\n  (3) A number is transferred at the time worked out under subsection (1), and not at the time worked out under subsection (2), if the number is ported from one carriage service provider to another when:\n    (a) an agreement described in subsection (2) and relating to the number is in force; or\n    (b) a notice relating to the number has been given as described in that subsection.\n\n## Part 2—Allocation charges\n\n### Division 1—Allocation in accordance with an allocation system\n\n#### 6 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Division:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Division.\n\n#### 7 Imposition of charge\n\n  If a number is allocated to a carriage service provider in accordance with an allocation system, charge is imposed on the allocation of the number to the provider.\n\n#### 8 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on the allocation of a number to a carriage service provider is payable by the provider.\n\n#### 9 Amount of charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number is equal to the amount that is the eligible amount in relation to the allocation of the number for the purposes of section 463 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n### Division 2—Allocation otherwise than in accordance with an allocation system\n\n#### 10 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Division:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Division.\n\n#### 11 Imposition of charge\n\n  If a number is allocated to a carriage service provider otherwise than in accordance with an allocation system, charge is imposed on the allocation of the number to the provider.\n\n#### 12 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on the allocation of a number to a carriage service provider is payable by the provider.\n\n#### 13 Amount of charge\n\n  (1) The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number is the amount ascertained in accordance with a written determination made by the ACMA.\n  (2) A determination under subsection (1) is a legislative instrument.\n\n#### 14 Maximum charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number must not exceed $100,000.\n\n#### 15 Exemption from charge\n\n  (1) A number is exempt from charge if the number is a geographic number allocated to a carriage service provider for the purposes of providing a standard telephone service to a customer.\n  (2) The ACMA may, by written determination, exempt a specified number from charge.\n\n> Note: For specification by class, see subsection 13(3) of the Legislation Act 2003.\n\n  (3) A determination under subsection (2) is a legislative instrument.\n\n## Part 3—Annual charge\n\n#### 16 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Part:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Part.\n\n#### 17 Holder of a number\n\n  (1) For the purposes of this Part, if a number is allocated or transferred to a carriage service provider at a particular time, the provider holds the number throughout the period:\n    (a) beginning at that time; and\n    (b) ending when:\n    (i) the number is subsequently withdrawn; or\n    (ii) the number is subsequently surrendered; or\n    (iii) the number is subsequently transferred from the provider to another carriage service provider;\n    whichever first happens.\n  (2) For the purposes of this section, the renumbering of a number does not affect the continuity of the holding of the number.\n\n#### 18 Imposition of charge\n\n  (1) If a carriage service provider holds an allocated number at the beginning of a day determined under subsection (2), charge is imposed on the number.\n  (2) Before 16 February in each year, the ACMA must determine in writing a day in April in that year.\n  (3) The ACMA must publish the determination in the Gazette before the day determined.\n\n#### 19 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on a number is payable by the carriage service provider who holds the number.\n\n#### 20 Amount of charge\n\n  (1) The amount of charge imposed on a number held at a particular time is the amount ascertained in accordance with a written determination made by the ACMA.\n  (2) A determination under subsection (1) is a legislative instrument.\n\n#### 21 Maximum charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on a number held at a particular time must not exceed $100,000.\n\n#### 22 Exemption from charge\n\n  (1) A number is exempt from charge if the number is a geographic number allocated to a carriage service provider for the purposes of providing a standard telephone service to a customer.\n  (2) The ACMA may, by written determination, exempt a specified number from charge.\n  (3) A determination under subsection (2) is a legislative instrument.\n\n> Note: For specification by class, see subsection 13(3) of the Legislation Act 2003.","sortOrder":7},{"sectionNumber":"Division 1","sectionType":"division","heading":"Allocation in accordance with an allocation system","content":"An Act to impose charges in relation to numbers allocated to certain carriage service providers under the Telecommunications Act 1997\n\n## Part 1—Introduction\n\n#### 1 Short title\n\n  This Act may be cited as the Telecommunications (Numbering Charges) Act 1997.\n\n#### 2 Commencement\n\n  (1) Parts 1 and 4 commence on the day on which this Act receives the Royal Assent.\n  (2) Parts 2 and 3 commence on 1 July 1997.\n\n#### 3 Act to bind Crown\n\n  This Act binds the Crown in right of each of the States, of the Australian Capital Territory and of the Northern Territory.\n\n#### 4 Extension to eligible Territories\n\n  (1) This Act extends to each eligible Territory.\n  (2) The operation of this Act in relation to Norfolk Island is not affected by the amendments made by Division 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 5 to the Territories Legislation Amendment Act 2016.\n\n#### 5 Interpretation\n\n  In this Act:\n\n> ACMA means the Australian Communications and Media Authority.\n\n> allocation, in relation to a number, means the allocation of the number in accordance with:\n\n    (a) an allocation system; or\n    (b) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (c) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n> allocation system means a system determined under section 463 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> carriage service provider has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> eligible Territory has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> number has the same meaning as in Division 2 of Part 22 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> numbering plan has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> numbering scheme manager has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> ported, in relation to a number issued to a customer for a carriage service, means that the carriage service provider or the carrier network involved in providing the service, or both, is changed while the customer continues to receive the carriage service using the number.\n\n> standard telephone service has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> surrendered, in relation to a number, means surrendered in accordance with:\n\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n> transferred has the meanings given by section 5A.\n\n> withdrawn, in relation to a number, means withdrawn in accordance with:\n\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n#### 5A Meaning of transferred\n\n  (1A) A number is transferred if it is transferred in accordance with:\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n  (1) A number is transferred between 2 carriage service providers when the number is ported from one of the providers to the other provider.\n  (2) Two carriage service providers may enter into a binding written agreement that provides that a number is transferred from one of them to the other. The carriage service providers must jointly give the ACMA written notice of the transfer, and also give the notice to the numbering scheme manager if there is one. The transfer takes effect on the later of the following:\n    (a) the day on which the notice is given to the ACMA;\n    (b) another day specified in the notice.\n  (3) A number is transferred at the time worked out under subsection (1), and not at the time worked out under subsection (2), if the number is ported from one carriage service provider to another when:\n    (a) an agreement described in subsection (2) and relating to the number is in force; or\n    (b) a notice relating to the number has been given as described in that subsection.\n\n## Part 2—Allocation charges\n\n### Division 1—Allocation in accordance with an allocation system\n\n#### 6 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Division:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Division.\n\n#### 7 Imposition of charge\n\n  If a number is allocated to a carriage service provider in accordance with an allocation system, charge is imposed on the allocation of the number to the provider.\n\n#### 8 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on the allocation of a number to a carriage service provider is payable by the provider.\n\n#### 9 Amount of charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number is equal to the amount that is the eligible amount in relation to the allocation of the number for the purposes of section 463 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n### Division 2—Allocation otherwise than in accordance with an allocation system\n\n#### 10 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Division:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Division.\n\n#### 11 Imposition of charge\n\n  If a number is allocated to a carriage service provider otherwise than in accordance with an allocation system, charge is imposed on the allocation of the number to the provider.\n\n#### 12 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on the allocation of a number to a carriage service provider is payable by the provider.\n\n#### 13 Amount of charge\n\n  (1) The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number is the amount ascertained in accordance with a written determination made by the ACMA.\n  (2) A determination under subsection (1) is a legislative instrument.\n\n#### 14 Maximum charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number must not exceed $100,000.\n\n#### 15 Exemption from charge\n\n  (1) A number is exempt from charge if the number is a geographic number allocated to a carriage service provider for the purposes of providing a standard telephone service to a customer.\n  (2) The ACMA may, by written determination, exempt a specified number from charge.\n\n> Note: For specification by class, see subsection 13(3) of the Legislation Act 2003.\n\n  (3) A determination under subsection (2) is a legislative instrument.\n\n## Part 3—Annual charge\n\n#### 16 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Part:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Part.\n\n#### 17 Holder of a number\n\n  (1) For the purposes of this Part, if a number is allocated or transferred to a carriage service provider at a particular time, the provider holds the number throughout the period:\n    (a) beginning at that time; and\n    (b) ending when:\n    (i) the number is subsequently withdrawn; or\n    (ii) the number is subsequently surrendered; or\n    (iii) the number is subsequently transferred from the provider to another carriage service provider;\n    whichever first happens.\n  (2) For the purposes of this section, the renumbering of a number does not affect the continuity of the holding of the number.\n\n#### 18 Imposition of charge\n\n  (1) If a carriage service provider holds an allocated number at the beginning of a day determined under subsection (2), charge is imposed on the number.\n  (2) Before 16 February in each year, the ACMA must determine in writing a day in April in that year.\n  (3) The ACMA must publish the determination in the Gazette before the day determined.\n\n#### 19 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on a number is payable by the carriage service provider who holds the number.\n\n#### 20 Amount of charge\n\n  (1) The amount of charge imposed on a number held at a particular time is the amount ascertained in accordance with a written determination made by the ACMA.\n  (2) A determination under subsection (1) is a legislative instrument.\n\n#### 21 Maximum charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on a number held at a particular time must not exceed $100,000.\n\n#### 22 Exemption from charge\n\n  (1) A number is exempt from charge if the number is a geographic number allocated to a carriage service provider for the purposes of providing a standard telephone service to a customer.\n  (2) The ACMA may, by written determination, exempt a specified number from charge.\n  (3) A determination under subsection (2) is a legislative instrument.\n\n> Note: For specification by class, see subsection 13(3) of the Legislation Act 2003.","sortOrder":8},{"sectionNumber":"6","sectionType":"section","heading":"Definition of charge","content":"#### 6 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Division:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Division.","sortOrder":9},{"sectionNumber":"7","sectionType":"section","heading":"Imposition of charge","content":"#### 7 Imposition of charge\n\n  If a number is allocated to a carriage service provider in accordance with an allocation system, charge is imposed on the allocation of the number to the provider.","sortOrder":10},{"sectionNumber":"8","sectionType":"section","heading":"By whom charge payable","content":"#### 8 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on the allocation of a number to a carriage service provider is payable by the provider.","sortOrder":11},{"sectionNumber":"9","sectionType":"section","heading":"Amount of charge","content":"#### 9 Amount of charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number is equal to the amount that is the eligible amount in relation to the allocation of the number for the purposes of section 463 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.","sortOrder":12},{"sectionNumber":"Division 2","sectionType":"division","heading":"Allocation otherwise than in accordance with an allocation system","content":"An Act to impose charges in relation to numbers allocated to certain carriage service providers under the Telecommunications Act 1997\n\n## Part 1—Introduction\n\n#### 1 Short title\n\n  This Act may be cited as the Telecommunications (Numbering Charges) Act 1997.\n\n#### 2 Commencement\n\n  (1) Parts 1 and 4 commence on the day on which this Act receives the Royal Assent.\n  (2) Parts 2 and 3 commence on 1 July 1997.\n\n#### 3 Act to bind Crown\n\n  This Act binds the Crown in right of each of the States, of the Australian Capital Territory and of the Northern Territory.\n\n#### 4 Extension to eligible Territories\n\n  (1) This Act extends to each eligible Territory.\n  (2) The operation of this Act in relation to Norfolk Island is not affected by the amendments made by Division 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 5 to the Territories Legislation Amendment Act 2016.\n\n#### 5 Interpretation\n\n  In this Act:\n\n> ACMA means the Australian Communications and Media Authority.\n\n> allocation, in relation to a number, means the allocation of the number in accordance with:\n\n    (a) an allocation system; or\n    (b) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (c) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n> allocation system means a system determined under section 463 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> carriage service provider has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> eligible Territory has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> number has the same meaning as in Division 2 of Part 22 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> numbering plan has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> numbering scheme manager has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> ported, in relation to a number issued to a customer for a carriage service, means that the carriage service provider or the carrier network involved in providing the service, or both, is changed while the customer continues to receive the carriage service using the number.\n\n> standard telephone service has the same meaning as in the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n> surrendered, in relation to a number, means surrendered in accordance with:\n\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n> transferred has the meanings given by section 5A.\n\n> withdrawn, in relation to a number, means withdrawn in accordance with:\n\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n\n#### 5A Meaning of transferred\n\n  (1A) A number is transferred if it is transferred in accordance with:\n    (a) the rules and processes published by the numbering scheme manager; or\n    (b) if there is no numbering scheme manager—the numbering plan made by the ACMA.\n  (1) A number is transferred between 2 carriage service providers when the number is ported from one of the providers to the other provider.\n  (2) Two carriage service providers may enter into a binding written agreement that provides that a number is transferred from one of them to the other. The carriage service providers must jointly give the ACMA written notice of the transfer, and also give the notice to the numbering scheme manager if there is one. The transfer takes effect on the later of the following:\n    (a) the day on which the notice is given to the ACMA;\n    (b) another day specified in the notice.\n  (3) A number is transferred at the time worked out under subsection (1), and not at the time worked out under subsection (2), if the number is ported from one carriage service provider to another when:\n    (a) an agreement described in subsection (2) and relating to the number is in force; or\n    (b) a notice relating to the number has been given as described in that subsection.\n\n## Part 2—Allocation charges\n\n### Division 1—Allocation in accordance with an allocation system\n\n#### 6 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Division:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Division.\n\n#### 7 Imposition of charge\n\n  If a number is allocated to a carriage service provider in accordance with an allocation system, charge is imposed on the allocation of the number to the provider.\n\n#### 8 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on the allocation of a number to a carriage service provider is payable by the provider.\n\n#### 9 Amount of charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number is equal to the amount that is the eligible amount in relation to the allocation of the number for the purposes of section 463 of the Telecommunications Act 1997.\n\n### Division 2—Allocation otherwise than in accordance with an allocation system\n\n#### 10 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Division:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Division.\n\n#### 11 Imposition of charge\n\n  If a number is allocated to a carriage service provider otherwise than in accordance with an allocation system, charge is imposed on the allocation of the number to the provider.\n\n#### 12 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on the allocation of a number to a carriage service provider is payable by the provider.\n\n#### 13 Amount of charge\n\n  (1) The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number is the amount ascertained in accordance with a written determination made by the ACMA.\n  (2) A determination under subsection (1) is a legislative instrument.\n\n#### 14 Maximum charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number must not exceed $100,000.\n\n#### 15 Exemption from charge\n\n  (1) A number is exempt from charge if the number is a geographic number allocated to a carriage service provider for the purposes of providing a standard telephone service to a customer.\n  (2) The ACMA may, by written determination, exempt a specified number from charge.\n\n> Note: For specification by class, see subsection 13(3) of the Legislation Act 2003.\n\n  (3) A determination under subsection (2) is a legislative instrument.\n\n## Part 3—Annual charge\n\n#### 16 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Part:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Part.\n\n#### 17 Holder of a number\n\n  (1) For the purposes of this Part, if a number is allocated or transferred to a carriage service provider at a particular time, the provider holds the number throughout the period:\n    (a) beginning at that time; and\n    (b) ending when:\n    (i) the number is subsequently withdrawn; or\n    (ii) the number is subsequently surrendered; or\n    (iii) the number is subsequently transferred from the provider to another carriage service provider;\n    whichever first happens.\n  (2) For the purposes of this section, the renumbering of a number does not affect the continuity of the holding of the number.\n\n#### 18 Imposition of charge\n\n  (1) If a carriage service provider holds an allocated number at the beginning of a day determined under subsection (2), charge is imposed on the number.\n  (2) Before 16 February in each year, the ACMA must determine in writing a day in April in that year.\n  (3) The ACMA must publish the determination in the Gazette before the day determined.\n\n#### 19 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on a number is payable by the carriage service provider who holds the number.\n\n#### 20 Amount of charge\n\n  (1) The amount of charge imposed on a number held at a particular time is the amount ascertained in accordance with a written determination made by the ACMA.\n  (2) A determination under subsection (1) is a legislative instrument.\n\n#### 21 Maximum charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on a number held at a particular time must not exceed $100,000.\n\n#### 22 Exemption from charge\n\n  (1) A number is exempt from charge if the number is a geographic number allocated to a carriage service provider for the purposes of providing a standard telephone service to a customer.\n  (2) The ACMA may, by written determination, exempt a specified number from charge.\n  (3) A determination under subsection (2) is a legislative instrument.\n\n> Note: For specification by class, see subsection 13(3) of the Legislation Act 2003.","sortOrder":13},{"sectionNumber":"10","sectionType":"section","heading":"Definition of charge","content":"#### 10 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Division:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Division.","sortOrder":14},{"sectionNumber":"11","sectionType":"section","heading":"Imposition of charge","content":"#### 11 Imposition of charge\n\n  If a number is allocated to a carriage service provider otherwise than in accordance with an allocation system, charge is imposed on the allocation of the number to the provider.","sortOrder":15},{"sectionNumber":"12","sectionType":"section","heading":"By whom charge payable","content":"#### 12 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on the allocation of a number to a carriage service provider is payable by the provider.","sortOrder":16},{"sectionNumber":"13","sectionType":"section","heading":"Amount of charge","content":"#### 13 Amount of charge\n\n  (1) The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number is the amount ascertained in accordance with a written determination made by the ACMA.\n  (2) A determination under subsection (1) is a legislative instrument.","sortOrder":17},{"sectionNumber":"14","sectionType":"section","heading":"Maximum charge","content":"#### 14 Maximum charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on the allocation of a number must not exceed $100,000.","sortOrder":18},{"sectionNumber":"15","sectionType":"section","heading":"Exemption from charge","content":"#### 15 Exemption from charge\n\n  (1) A number is exempt from charge if the number is a geographic number allocated to a carriage service provider for the purposes of providing a standard telephone service to a customer.\n  (2) The ACMA may, by written determination, exempt a specified number from charge.\n\n> Note: For specification by class, see subsection 13(3) of the Legislation Act 2003.\n\n  (3) A determination under subsection (2) is a legislative instrument.","sortOrder":19},{"sectionNumber":"Part 3","sectionType":"part","heading":"Annual charge","content":"## Part 3—Annual charge","sortOrder":20},{"sectionNumber":"16","sectionType":"section","heading":"Definition of charge","content":"#### 16 Definition of charge\n\n  In this Part:\n\n> charge means charge imposed by this Part.","sortOrder":21},{"sectionNumber":"17","sectionType":"section","heading":"Holder of a number","content":"#### 17 Holder of a number\n\n  (1) For the purposes of this Part, if a number is allocated or transferred to a carriage service provider at a particular time, the provider holds the number throughout the period:\n    (a) beginning at that time; and\n    (b) ending when:\n    (i) the number is subsequently withdrawn; or\n    (ii) the number is subsequently surrendered; or\n    (iii) the number is subsequently transferred from the provider to another carriage service provider;\n    whichever first happens.\n  (2) For the purposes of this section, the renumbering of a number does not affect the continuity of the holding of the number.","sortOrder":22},{"sectionNumber":"18","sectionType":"section","heading":"Imposition of charge","content":"#### 18 Imposition of charge\n\n  (1) If a carriage service provider holds an allocated number at the beginning of a day determined under subsection (2), charge is imposed on the number.\n  (2) Before 16 February in each year, the ACMA must determine in writing a day in April in that year.\n  (3) The ACMA must publish the determination in the Gazette before the day determined.","sortOrder":23},{"sectionNumber":"19","sectionType":"section","heading":"By whom charge payable","content":"#### 19 By whom charge payable\n\n  Charge imposed on a number is payable by the carriage service provider who holds the number.","sortOrder":24},{"sectionNumber":"20","sectionType":"section","heading":"Amount of charge","content":"#### 20 Amount of charge\n\n  (1) The amount of charge imposed on a number held at a particular time is the amount ascertained in accordance with a written determination made by the ACMA.\n  (2) A determination under subsection (1) is a legislative instrument.","sortOrder":25},{"sectionNumber":"21","sectionType":"section","heading":"Maximum charge","content":"#### 21 Maximum charge\n\n  The amount of charge imposed on a number held at a particular time must not exceed $100,000.","sortOrder":26},{"sectionNumber":"22","sectionType":"section","heading":"Exemption from charge","content":"#### 22 Exemption from charge\n\n  (1) A number is exempt from charge if the number is a geographic number allocated to a carriage service provider for the purposes of providing a standard telephone service to a customer.\n  (2) The ACMA may, by written determination, exempt a specified number from charge.\n  (3) A determination under subsection (2) is a legislative instrument.\n\n> Note: For specification by class, see subsection 13(3) of the Legislation Act 2003.","sortOrder":27}],"analysis":{"kimi_summary":{"content_quality":"ok","complexity_score":4,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The legislation appears consistent with its original purpose of imposing charges on telephone number allocations and holdings. The amendments visible (such as the Norfolk Island provision and the transferred number provisions in section 5A) represent refinements to the charging mechanism rather than expansion beyond the original scope of number charge imposition."},"complexity_factors":["Multiple cross-references to the Telecommunications Act 1997 for key definitions (carriage service provider, eligible Territory, numbering plan, etc.)","Dual charging mechanisms (allocation charges vs annual charges) with different calculation methods","Conditional logic for 'transferred' numbers with priority rules between porting and written agreements (section 5A(3))","Delegated legislative power to ACMA to set charge amounts via legislative instruments","Nested definitions requiring understanding of 'allocation system', 'numbering scheme manager', and 'numbering plan' hierarchy","Specific timing mechanisms for annual charge assessment (before 16 February determination for April date)","Territorial extension provisions including specific carve-out for Norfolk Island"],"plain_english_summary":"This law sets up a system where phone companies (carriage service providers) must pay fees to the government for using telephone numbers.\n\n**What it does:**\n- **Allocation charges**: When a phone company gets allocated a new phone number, they must pay a one-off fee. The amount depends on whether the number was allocated through a standard system (Division 1) or through other means (Division 2). For standard allocations, the fee is set by the Telecommunications Act 1997. For non-standard allocations, the ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority) sets the fee, capped at $100,000 per number.\n- **Annual charges**: Phone companies must also pay an annual fee for every number they hold. The ACMA sets the fee amount (also capped at $100,000 per number) and picks a day in April each year when the charge is assessed.\n\n**Who it affects:**\n- Phone companies and carriage service providers who hold phone numbers\n- The ACMA, which administers the charging system\n\n**Key exemptions:**\n- Geographic numbers used for standard telephone services to customers are exempt from both allocation and annual charges\n- The ACMA can exempt specific numbers by written determination\n\n**Why it matters:**\nThis creates a cost for holding phone numbers, encouraging efficient use of the limited numbering resource and generating revenue for the government. It ensures companies don't hoard numbers without using them."},"flash_summary_failed":{"failed":true,"reason":"A positive credit balance is required for all requests, including BYOK, so fallback providers remain available. Add credits at https://vercel.com/d?to=%2F%5Bteam%5D%2F%7E%2Fai%3Fmodal%3Dtop-up to continue.","source":"analysis-cron"},"summary":{"complexity_score":5,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The Act remains focused on its original stated purpose: imposing charges on carriage service providers for the allocation and holding of telephone numbers. There is no evidence of scope creep beyond the original intent. Updates relating to Norfolk Island and the introduction of a 'numbering scheme manager' concept appear to be administrative modernisations consistent with the original framework."},"complexity_factors":["Heavy cross-referencing to the Telecommunications Act 1997, meaning you cannot fully understand this Act without reading another piece of legislation","Multiple overlapping definitions of 'transferred' with different timing rules depending on whether porting or a written agreement is involved","Two separate charging regimes for number allocation (auction system vs. direct allocation) with different rules for each","ACMA's broad discretionary powers to set amounts, grant exemptions, and determine charge dates via subordinate instruments — the actual dollar amounts are not in the Act itself","The document appears to repeat itself significantly (possible formatting/rendering duplication), which adds confusion when reading","Interaction between number porting, written transfer agreements, and charge liability requires careful sequential analysis","Applies across multiple Australian territories with a specific carve-out for Norfolk Island amendments"],"plain_english_summary":"This Act creates a fee regime requiring telecommunications carriers to pay for allocated telephone numbers — including one‑off allocation charges and ongoing annual fees set by the regulator — while ordinary geographic numbers are exempt. \n\nIt affects carriers (not end users directly), shifts fee liability when numbers are ported between providers, and aims to curb number hoarding and recover value from a scarce public resource."},"flash_summary":{"complexity_score":4,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The provided text consistently sets out charging power (allocation and annual), ACMA's rule‑making role, exemptions and caps. The Act's subject‑matter and territorial application are unchanged within the text; no amendments or scope‑expanding provisions are apparent in the supplied material."},"complexity_factors":["Two separate charging regimes: allocation under an 'allocation system' (Div 1) and allocation otherwise (Div 2), plus a separate annual holding charge (Part 3).","Significant delegation to the ACMA to set amounts, dates and exemptions by written determination (see definitions and ss 9, 13, 20, 18).","Multiple cross‑references to the Telecommunications Act 1997 for key terms and the 'eligible amount', creating dependency on external provisions (see s 5 and s 9).","Use of legislative instruments for determinations (s 13(2), s 20(2)) which creates procedural and parliamentary-scrutiny steps.","Explicit monetary cap on individual charges ($100,000) that applies in both allocation‑and‑annual contexts (ss 14, 21).","Exemptions for geographic numbers used for standard telephone service, plus ACMA discretion to exempt specified numbers (ss 15, 22).","Timing rule for annual charge relies on an ACMA determination each year, adding an administrative compliance point (s 18).","Definitions of transfer, porting, surrender, withdrawal and holding create multiple event triggers affecting liability (ss 5, 5A, 17).","Application to Crown and eligible Territories creates additional jurisdictional reach (ss 3–4)."],"plain_english_summary":"This Act requires carriage service providers to pay fees when telephone numbers are are allocated to them and an annual holding charge for numbers they hold. The ACMA sets or determines the amounts (or applies the 'eligible amount' from the Telecommunications Act), may exempt numbers by written determination, and each charge is capped at $100,000; geographic numbers used for standard telephone service are exempt. The law affects providers that receive, transfer, port, hold, surrender or withdraw numbers."}},"importantCases":[],"_links":{"self":"/api/acts/telecommunications-numbering-charges-act-1997","history":"/api/acts/telecommunications-numbering-charges-act-1997/history","analysis":"/api/acts/telecommunications-numbering-charges-act-1997/analysis","conflicts":"/api/acts/telecommunications-numbering-charges-act-1997/conflicts","importantCases":"/api/acts/telecommunications-numbering-charges-act-1997/important-cases","documents":"/api/acts/telecommunications-numbering-charges-act-1997/documents"}}