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Optus Business vs Powernet: Which MSP is Better? | The MSP Playbook

Article 2026-06-12

Optus Business vs Powernet

A detailed comparison of two major Australian Managed Service Providers.

Feature Optus Business Powernet
Overall Score3.03.9
TypeTelco / EnterpriseSMB / Mid-Market
Employees2000-3000150-250
Founded19912001
HeadquartersSydney, NSW (Parent: Singapore)Melbourne, VIC
RevenuePrivatePrivate
Salary Range$75,000 - $145,000$75,000 - $155,000
SpecialtiesCybersecurity, Cloud, Network Services, Managed ServicesManaged Services, Cloud, Microsoft 365, Security
CertificationsMicrosoft Partner, AWS Partner, Cisco Partner, Fortinet PartnerMicrosoft Partner, AWS Partner, Fortinet Partner
Green FlagsSingapore Telecom parent provides stability
Strong telecommunications backbone
Good benefits package		Good work-life balance
Strong technology focus
Stable employment
Red FlagsTelco culture — IT services are secondary
Below-market salaries
Limited career progression
Bureaucratic decision-making		Below-market salaries
Can be bureaucratic
Limited career progression
Worker ProsStable employment
Good benefits
Telecommunications expertise		Technology focus
Work-life balance
Stable
Worker ConsIT services are secondary to telco
Below-market salaries
Bureaucratic culture
Limited career progression		Below-market pay
Bureaucratic
Limited progression

Which MSP Should You Choose?

Both Telco / Enterprise and SMB / Mid-Market have strengths and weaknesses. Your choice depends on your priorities — whether that's career growth, salary, work-life balance, or technical exposure.

Use the side-by-side comparison tool for a deeper look, or check out individual profiles for detailed employee reviews.