Telecommunications

Smith argued that the 3G shutdown was a commercial decision by telcos, not the government, and highlighted that 97 per cent of his electorate previously lacked mobile coverage. Smith detailed government investments including $55 million for the Mobile Black Spot Program and $1.1 billion for the Better Connectivity Plan. Smith emphasised the upcoming Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation, which will require telcos to provide outdoor mobile SMS and voice coverage across Australia using existing networks or low-Earth-orbit satellites.

Violi supported the motion, arguing that reliable communications are critical for safety, particularly during emergencies such as storms. Violi claimed the Minister for Communications had failed to address issues with triple 0 and the 3G shutdown, relying on roundtables rather than decisive action. Violi stated that the government was prioritising spin over delivery and criticised the minister for refusing to attend Senate hearings into triple 0 failures.

Chesters opposed the motion, attributing current telecommunications challenges to the privatisation of the sector under previous Liberal-National governments. Chesters argued that the market does not naturally serve regional areas and that regulation is necessary to ensure service delivery. Chesters highlighted the government's commitment to standardising telco coverage metrics through an audit and reiterated investments in the Black Spot Program and the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation.

Chaffey argued that the lack of reliable telecommunications in regional Australia created dangerous situations, citing examples of stranded motorists and businesses unable to process payments. Chaffey noted that residents faced higher costs for inferior service and that connectivity issues impacted health, education, and farm productivity. Chaffey referenced surveys and feedback from organisations like the Country Women's Association and the National Farmers' Federation to illustrate widespread frustration with poor connectivity.

Templeman acknowledged the challenges of the 3G transition but argued that technological shifts are inevitable and necessary for the modern economy. Templeman shared personal experiences of connectivity issues during bushfires, emphasising the life-and-death importance of reliable networks. Templeman detailed ongoing efforts to secure funding for mobile towers in her electorate, noting that some projects were delayed by previous governments but are now progressing under the current administration.

Boyce supported the motion, describing the reality of telecommunications failures in his electorate, including inability to contact emergency services or conduct banking. Boyce argued that telcos were driven by economics rather than service delivery, neglecting areas with little profit potential. Boyce invited the Minister and telco CEOs to visit his electorate to witness the dire situation and called for a review of service obligations to better support isolated communities.

Smith argued that the 3G shutdown was a commercial decision by telcos to free up spectrum for data-intensive applications, as the network was outdated. Smith stated that while the transition had costs, the government was monitoring impacts and providing support through programs like the On Farm Connectivity Program. Smith noted that a roundtable with industry stakeholders helped identify lessons for future network transitions, ensuring that no one is left behind.