Telecommunications

Teesdale acknowledged the challenges identified in the RTIRC report, particularly regarding mobile congestion and digital inclusion in Tasmania. Teesdale highlighted the government's $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan, noting the delivery of new mobile base stations and battery backup systems in her electorate. Teesdale explained that the delay in responding to the report was due to the federal election and caretaker period, not neglect. Teesdale emphasised the importance of low-Earth-orbit satellite services for safety and connectivity in remote areas.

Aldred criticised the government for failing to address mobile black spots, citing an OECD report that highlighted growing discrepancies between metropolitan and regional broadband performance. Aldred noted that the coalition had funded 1,295 mobile black spot improvements during its time in government. Aldred argued that regional Australia deserved better infrastructure and that the current government was holding back economic growth through inadequate investment. Aldred called for metrics based on quality and consistency, not just access.

Smith described the severe lack of coverage in his electorate, where 97 per cent of the area had no mobile service, posing safety risks for residents and travellers. Smith contrasted the current government's actions with the previous decade of coalition rule, claiming Labor had delivered more in one term. Smith highlighted specific projects, including free community wi-fi in Indigenous communities and the construction of a macro base cell station. Smith argued that connectivity was essential for health, education, and safety outcomes in remote regions.

Haines thanked the member for Mallee for the motion and noted progress in her electorate, including 65 new or upgraded towers since 2013. Haines called on the government to respond to the RTIRC report and implement recommendations, such as replicating community energy nodes for emergency resilience. Haines raised concerns about affordability, describing a 'regional internet tax' that burdened businesses and residents. Haines proposed a policy for 24-hour power backup at mobile towers in high-bushfire-risk areas and welcomed NBN's announcement on affordable satellite internet.

Chesters outlined the government's plan for a universal outdoor mobile obligation, aiming to provide baseline mobile connectivity across Australia by late 2027. Chesters explained that this would require telcos to leverage existing networks and low-Earth-orbit satellites to cover the 70 per cent of landmass currently without service. Chesters criticised the previous government's Mobile Black Spot Program as ineffective and biased. Chesters highlighted ongoing fibre-to-the-curb rollouts in Bendigo to improve internet reliability for households and businesses.