Australians will be better connected than ever with new laws establishing the framework for the Albanese Government's Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO).
The legislation, introduced to Parliament today, will require national mobile carriers Telstra, Optus and TPG to provide access to SMS and voice coverage for Australians nationwide, almost everywhere you can see the sky.
It is expected the changes will help add up to 5 million square km of basic outdoor mobile SMS and voice coverage across Australia, making Australians more connected, keeping them safer, and ensuring they are able to call for help in times of emergency.
It will be made possible by a combination of existing terrestrial towers and new Low Earth Orbit Satellite technology, which allows for mobile signals to connect Direct to Device rather than relying on land-based infrastructure like mobile towers.
The UOMO will start by 1 December 2027 subject to market developments, with the Government working closely with industry to monitor the rollout of new Direct to Device technology.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, Anika Wells:
"No Australian should be left behind, and the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation will ensure Australians get a mobile signal almost anywhere they can see the sky.
"It will provide regional and remote communities with greater connectivity and access to essential services - and keep Australians safer by ensuring they can get emergency help when they need it."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain:
"This is really important reform that will improve connectivity for people in regional and remote Australia.
"From the outback to the coast to the mountains, mobile black spots can be frustrating and make doing basic tasks difficult.
"Improved connectivity not only keeps people connected, but it means safer roads, stronger businesses, and better access to services."
Quotes attributable to National Farmers' Federation President Hamish McIntyre:
"Mobile connectivity isn't a luxury for farmers and regional Australians, it's fundamental for safety, their businesses, connecting families, and staying safe in emergencies.
"Improved outdoor mobile coverage will help put regional Australians on a more level playing field with their city counterparts. It will boost productivity and the uptake of agtech, and keep people safer.
"This is a world-first policy. If we get it right, Australia could become the gold standard for regional communications."
