This year’s review received a total of 3404 submissions — a more than 400 per cent increase from the 2021 review.
Conducted every three years, the review aims to address connectivity issues beyond urban areas and close the digital divide between cities and regional communities.
Previous feedback from past reviews has shaped new policy initiatives, such as the Mobile Black Spot Program and the National Audit of Mobile Coverage.
The Review Committee made all non-confidential submissions public on October 25 and is now reviewing them to develop recommendations for the government.
The submissions include 306 written entries and 3098 responses collected through an online survey — introduced this year to make it easier for people to participate.
“On behalf of the committee I’d like to thank everyone who has taken the time to have their say – your input will help us shape the report and recommendations to the Australian Government going forward,” The Hon Alannah MacTiernan said.
“We are paying great attention to these submissions and to the feedback we have received in our community consultations across the country.”
“Together they are guiding the development of our recommendations to the minister on how we believe we can improve telecommunication services in the bush, improving regional life and fostering regional development,” Ms MacTiernan.
In recent months, the committee, chaired by Ms MacTiernan, has engaged in face-to-face consultations, listening to community concerns.
The committee’s focus is on shaping recommendations that address critical issues such as improving digital literacy, enhancing connectivity during emergencies, and meeting the needs of First Nations communities.
Committee members, including Ian Kelly, Fiona Nash, Jessa Rogers, and Kristy Sparrow, are now finalising their recommendations.
The final report, expected by December 31, 2024, will be presented to the Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland who established the review’s guidelines in January 2024.
“Previous Reviews have helped shape important policy changes, and we look forward to our report assisting the minister forge new paths for regional telecommunications policy in a time of rapid change and increased complexity,” Ms MacTiernan said.
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