The Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee has delivered its 2024 report to the Australian Government.
Chaired by the Hon Alannah MacTiernan, the Committee received a record number of submissions, along with strong feedback from in person consultations held across the country.
The extensive feedback provided by regional Australians was key in developing the report, which highlights recent progress and ongoing challenges for connectivity in regional and remote Australia.
The Committee has made 14 recommendations to the Australian Government, all designed to improve the telecommunications experience for regional, rural and remote Australians. They include recommendations aimed at enhancing mobile coverage, universal services guarantee, consumer protection, affordability, connectivity literacy and First Nations inclusion. The emerging LEO satellite technologies were a critical consideration in framing the recommendations for the best way to invest and support regional communities.
Undertaken every three years, the review provides an opportunity for Australians living and working in regional Australia to share their experiences and expectations when using telecommunications services.
Responses to previous Regional Telecommunications Reviews have informed important Australian Government initiatives to improve regional connectivity such as the Mobile Black Spot Program, the National Audit of Mobile Coverage and the First Nations Digital Inclusion Plan.
The Government will now review the Committee's findings and recommendations before providing a response in early 2025.
