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The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and the Arts called for input on the possible amendments to the ‘Telecommunications in New Developments (TIND) Policy’. The NGAA responded and reinforced the importance for enhanced mobile phone coverage nationwide.
Our submission emphasised the vital need for all Australians to have access to reliable telephone reception, especially in new developments and growth areas, including for mobile infrastructure to be considered early in the planning stages and to be installed by the time new developments are occupied.
In recent years, mobile phones have become the primary mode of communication for many households, with an increasing number of families no longer having a fixed phone line. Recognising the paramount importance of mobile phone coverage, we are actively advocating for comprehensive and accessible networks to bridge the communication gap in these growing communities.
One of our key concerns is the increasingly common burden placed on local government organisations to source and rezone land for telecommunication providers after a community has moved in. The most efficient and appropriate time to plan for mobile telecommunications infrastructure is during the master planning process for new communities when land is set aside for a range of community uses. This is best done as a collaborative effort between the developer, government bodies, and telecommunication providers to ensure seamless implementation of mobile phone networks.
Reliable mobile phone coverage is not just a matter of convenience; it is a fundamental necessity for communities. In an age where connectivity is integral to our daily lives, we are advocating for a proactive approach to mobile infrastructure planning, ensuring that all Australians, regardless of their location, have access to consistent and reliable phone reception.
We encourage all stakeholders, including developers, government bodies, and telecommunication providers, to work together to prioritise the establishment of robust mobile telecommunications infrastructure to facilitate adequate phone networks. By doing so, Australia can enhance connectivity and bridge the digital divide, ensuring that every Australian can communicate effectively and participate fully in the modern digital world.
To read our submission, click here.
