An ACMA investigation found that Sumo Power—an electricity, gas and internet provider—could not show it had consent to conduct telemarketing to numbers on the Do Not Call Register. This was due to their poor record keeping practices and because they had not adequately monitored their third-party call centres.

'Consumers on the Do Not Call Register do not want their privacy intruded upon by unwanted calls,' said ACMA Chair Nerida O'Loughlin. 'Businesses must ensure they have proof that people on the Register have given permission to be called.'

This enforcement action is part of the ACMA's ongoing work targeting companies breaking spam and telemarketing laws. In total, businesses have paid $386,400 in infringement notices in the past 12 months under the campaign.

The ACMA has also recently initiated proceedings in the Federal Court against two companies as part of its focus on solar and lead generation telemarketing.

'Businesses are on notice that the ACMA is serious about enforcing telemarketing laws,' said Ms O'Loughlin.

Breaching Australia's telemarketing laws can lead to formal warnings, infringement notices or action in the Federal Court.

To register your number, or to make a complaint about telemarketing, go to www.donotcall.gov.au or call 1300 792 958.

Don't worry about Sumo, the cost of the fine will no doubt be factored into their customers next bill!