Superloop Seeks ACCC Approval for Functional Separation Following Lynham Acquisition

Superloop has submitted a proposal to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) seeking approval for a joint functional separation framework following its $165 million acquisition of Lynham Networks.

The regulator has initiated an industry consultation on the proposal and indicated a preliminary view that the plan could support long-term competition in Australia’s superfast broadband market.

Under the proposed undertaking, Lynham Networks would operate as a wholesale-only infrastructure provider, prohibited from directly selling broadband services to residential customers. Meanwhile, the group’s retail arms—including Superloop Broadband, Exetel, Veda Networks, and Lightning Broadband—would operate independently, offering services to end users on non-discriminatory terms.

The separation framework also includes operational safeguards, such as distinct branding, physically separate offices, and independent management structures between wholesale and retail entities. These measures are designed to ensure fair competition among retail service providers accessing the network.

Currently, both Superloop and Lynham benefit from regulatory exemptions that allow smaller network operators to offer retail services alongside wholesale operations. However, following the acquisition, Superloop is seeking to formalize a new structure that aligns with regulatory expectations while preserving its ability to compete with larger incumbents like NBN Co.

Superloop argues that without approval, it would be required to operate its infrastructure on a wholesale-only basis—potentially limiting incentives for network expansion and reducing competitive pressure in new fibre deployments.

The ACCC’s initial assessment suggests the proposal could enhance infrastructure competition and increase consumer choice by enabling more retail service providers to operate across Superloop’s expanded network footprint.

Stakeholders have been invited to submit feedback on the undertaking by May 8, with the ACCC expected to deliver a final decision later in the month.