Communications Review Offers Recommendations for Digital Inclusion

Every three years the Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee examines how people in regional, rural and remote areas utilise their telecommunication services by holding 22 public sessions across the country, including Narrabri and Tamworth, and collecting over 380 submissions from a range of individuals and organisations. In the report, the Committee provides an analysis of the coverage achieved under the Mobile Black Spot Program, examine the extent of the existing gaps in mobile coverage and a series of recommendations on how to improve telecommunication services, and how regional communities can maximise the economic opportunities of digital technologies and services.

The 2018 report 2018 Regional Telecommunications Review: Getting it right out there that was tabled at parliament in December, puts forward 10 recommendations to improve access to telecommunications infrastructure, ensure modern and appropriate consumer protections and promote digital inclusion.

“Telecommunications touches every aspect of life for those living in regional, rural and remote Australia. This report is a vital check-up on the health of regional communications. Now more than ever it is critical that we get connectivity right in our regions,” said the Minister for Regional Services, Senator Bridget McKenzie.

The Government will respond to the Committee’s recommendations early this year and further information about the committee and the review process can be found on the Regional Telecommunications Review website.