The trials will test voice services delivered over low earth orbit satellites (LEOSats), as well as existing NBN Co fixed wireless and satellite services to provide a comparison.
Work is now underway to progressively set up sites for the trials, which will run until mid-2025.
The trials will collect data on the reliability and quality of voice calls, and test impacts of weather conditions on services. This will allow the performance of services to be considered across a representative range of regions across Australia, including over the northern Australia wet season.
The trials will help inform universal telecommunications service arrangements going forward.
Data collected through trials will be independent of industry and will be made publicly available in coming months.
