❓ The Minister responds to a question regarding telecommunications coverage at the Abrolhos Islands, stating that DPIRD hasn't conducted tests and refers to the Australian Government's national audit and future technology advancements for improved connectivity.
AnsweredQoN 914Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
I refer to telecommunication coverage at the Abrolhos Islands, and I ask: (a) what tests have been done to ensure suitable coverage exists for the Islands; (b) in reference to (a), if done, what were the results; (c) in reference to (a), if not, why not; (d) are there plans to expand the current coverage that exists; and (e) if yes to (d), can the Minister detail these plans?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
24 February 2026
Responded by
Minister for Regional Development
Response time
10 days
(a-b) The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has not tested telecommunications coverage at the Abrolhos Islands.
(c) DPIRD does not test telecommunications coverage.
The Australian Government, which has responsibility for telecommunications, is undertaking a national audit of mobile coverage through to 30 June 2027.
(d-e) Telstra customers with newer mobile phone models can send short message service texts from the Abrolhos Islands. Advances in direct-to-device technology via Low Earth Orbit satellite are expected to enable full mobile connectivity over the Abrolhos Islands in the next 3 to 5 years.
(c) DPIRD does not test telecommunications coverage.
The Australian Government, which has responsibility for telecommunications, is undertaking a national audit of mobile coverage through to 30 June 2027.
(d-e) Telstra customers with newer mobile phone models can send short message service texts from the Abrolhos Islands. Advances in direct-to-device technology via Low Earth Orbit satellite are expected to enable full mobile connectivity over the Abrolhos Islands in the next 3 to 5 years.
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