The Regional, Rural, and Remote Communications Coalition (RRRCC), welcomes the Federal Government's Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO), which proposes to ensure Australian mobile carriers are obligated to provide outdoor mobile coverage nationwide. The RRRCC is a collective of 21 organisations dedicated to improving connectivity in the bush and includes organisations such as National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA), National Farmers Federation (NFF) and Isolated Children's and Parents Association Australia (ICPA).
"While any step to enhance rural connectivity is welcome, we must ensure these initiatives meet the real needs of rural communities," said Susi Tegen, CEO of NRHA. "Reliable mobile connectivity is vital for health and wellbeing, and rural Australians should not be left behind in these plans."
RRRCC acknowledges the potential benefits of UOMO, but cautions that satellite-based solutions require a clear line of sight and compatible devices, which may limit accessibility. The specifics of how people will access this technology, including device and plan costs, are still unclear. "We look forward to working closely with the government as the legislation is developed to ensure these issues are addressed," said Wendy Hick, Chair of the Rural, Regional and Remote Communications Coalition (RRRCC).
"UOMO is an important step forward but is not a silver bullet," added Hick. "It must complement, not replace, existing terrestrial networks. We need a balanced approach to ensure reliable and affordable services for rural communities."
RRRCC calls for continued investment in terrestrial networks alongside UOMO and strengthened consumer protections. Service providers must be held accountable for the quality of service they promise, especially in rural areas where there are many barriers to getting and staying connected.
"Rural Australians are still facing mobile coverage and capacity issues, especially since 3G shutdown, which can undermine health security and other digital initiatives," added Tegen. "Misinformation about coverage must be addressed, and service providers must be transparent about lack of coverage, as well as provide the support needed when transitioning to, and understanding, new technologies."
RRRCC urges the government to ensure that rural communities benefit from both new emerging technologies and terrestrial solutions to guarantee reliable, affordable connectivity for all. It is an economic and social imperative.
About us:
The RRRCC is a collective of 21 organisations dedicated to improving connectivity in the bush and includes organisations such as National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA), National Farmers Federation (NFF) and Isolated Childrens and Parents Association Australia (ICPA).
