Telecommunications Legislation Amendment (Triple Zero Custodian and Emergency Calling Powers) Bill 2025; Consideration in Detail

Opened the debate

McIntosh moved five amendments to strengthen the bill's provisions regarding the triple 0 network. The proposals included listing the network as critical infrastructure under the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018, doubling penalties for contraventions to $20 million, establishing a public register of outage events, reducing the reporting period for the regulator from six months to three months, and requiring the publication of reports. McIntosh argued that these measures were necessary to restore public confidence, ensure transparency, and protect national security following recent catastrophic failures and fatalities.

Government response

Wells opposed the amendments moved by McIntosh, stating that good faith discussions regarding the changes were still underway. The minister argued that the opposition's decision to expedite the amendments prevented the finalisation of these discussions before the vote. Consequently, the government voted against the proposals to allow for further negotiation and refinement of the legislative details.

Opposition response

Webster moved two amendments to ensure the Triple Zero Custodian specifically investigates and reports on connectivity deficiencies in rural, regional, and remote Australia. Webster argued that regional Australians face unique risks due to poor connectivity and lack of alternative services, which the current bill did not adequately address. The amendments sought to mandate reporting on personal safety risks and specific challenges faced by these communities, asserting that the government had neglected regional needs.