Established in Australia in 1992, AT&T Australia is part of the AT&T Corporation, a leading voice and data communications service provider that serves businesses, government and consumers around the globe. It is backed by the research and development capabilities of the AT&T Labs. AT&T Australia started serving its business customers directly in 2002 after ending its local service provider agreement with Telstra.

AT&T provides a comprehensive service portfolio in Australia, including managed IP virtual private network, remote dial-up access with global roaming, managed data network services, frame relay connectivity, multi-protocol network connectivity, managed hosting services, managed security services as well as network consulting, design and implementation and network outsourcing services.

In 2002 the company invested heavily in enhancing its network infrastructure and bandwidth as well as recruiting a number of key personnel. In order to support the expansion of its business in Australia, AT&T installed six new multiprotocol label-switching (MPLS) nodes, two of which were installed in Sydney, and one each in Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. In addition, AT&T invested US$300 million to upgrade its entire global network in 2002.

The enhanced network, with higher bandwidth and network redundancy, enables the company to offer services such as Global Managed Internet Services (GMIS), Managed Data Network Services (MDNS) and Enhanced Virtual Private Network Services (EVPN) at even higher levels of quality and reliability.

AT&T Australia exceeded its business targets last year and won a string of new customers that included Arnott's/Campbell's Soups, Lend Lease and BASF. The company attributes its success in part to ‘a flight to quality’ in a period of turmoil and uncertainty in the telecommunications industry. Customers are looking for reliable, financially sound partners who offer stability, integrity and world-class service quality. These are the principles that AT&T has always maintained and where, clearly, the pedigree of the AT&T name counts.

‘While other telecom companies are cutting back, we continue to expand and invest in our network and people to better serve businesses in this region. We are committed to being a long-term partner for our customers to serve their existing and future communications needs,’ said Steve Lowe, Managing Director for AT&T Australia and New Zealand.

This year will be a year of consolidation for AT&T Australia, building on the services and successes of 2002.

Website: www.ap.att.com