Re:Isn't this normal? (Score 1)

Yes, this would be true however Telstra's decision (because Telstra make up such a stupidly large amount of the broadband market) no matter what it is will most likely have whatever they say handed over to most other ISP's. As far as cable goes it's either choose to use BPA (BigPond Advance) or Optus@Home. That's it for cable. For ADSL it's slightly different you have a choice of either Telstra or Telstra's network repackaged under another name eg iPrimus. So the only thing you can do is support O@H cable, which since it's only them and Telstra can easily put in a slightly higher monthly rate and charge after that because there's nothing anyone can do, I mean what can you do? Go back to dial-up? As for ADSL 99% if not more of it is now volume based and those that aren't have very strict limits on what you use. And even if your lucky enough to find some little ADSL place where you like the service and they are nice people you are still supporting Telstra as EVERY ADSL telco in Australia uses their network.

Damned if you do, damned if you don't.