Telstra is the first to deliver to customers an online 24/7 news channel. Thus, any Telstra 3G and Next G mobile customer that has a compatible handset can subscribe to BigPond Live TV News for 4.95 Australian dollars per month, or 1.95 Australian dollars for a day pass.

The channel will also be available online on BigPond's website, and for BigPond broadband customers, it will be unmetered, meaning, their viewing of videos will not count towards their monthly data allowance.

"Telstra's new service will provide Australians with a whole new way to receive their news, because from today they can watch and listen to live video news almost anywhere they go and exactly when they feel like it." Managing Director at Telstra Media group, Justin Milne, said about the launch of the new service.

BigPond Live TV News will provide subscribers a continuous live video stream with general news, but also with dedicated news regarding subjects like politics, finance, sports and weather. The news bulletins will be combined with topics concerning health, entertainment, technology and environment.

"Telstra is challenging other news services by offering a dedicated 24 hour online and mobile streaming video service. We cross live to important events as they occur. On our first day we covered the US Presidential debate and Prime Minister Gordon Brown announcing his rescue package for British banks. If there's something worth knowing it will be found at BigPond News." Milne said, adding that, "It means our customers could be on the bus, in a paddock or waiting for the dentist, and still watch live news as it happens."

Justin Milne concluded by saying that, "Telstra continually pioneers new and innovative content for our customers. We remain committed to being the leader in the region for delivering the best and exclusive mobile and online entertainment to our customers."