Number portability for telecommunications

With new industry players entering the once monopolistic telecommunications sector, a new system was required to assess new entrants' eligibility and fairly allocate numbers. The Number Administration Deed (NAD) is an industry-based mechanism for the centralised and independent administration of the parties' telecommunications numbering resources and a forum to investigate number portability.

M-co fulfilled the role of the independent Number Administrator and secretariat to the NAD Management Committee. Providing ongoing project management, support and advice on rule drafting and interpretation.

In January 2001, the Government urged NAD to commission an independent economic report into net economic benefits of introducing long-term number portability. Number portability enables a consumer to change their telephone service provider while retaining their existing telephone number.