Albanese Government proposes new rules to improve mobile coverage in new developments

Media Release from Senator the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, Minister for Communications

MEDIA RELEASE | Wednesday 11 October 2023

The Albanese Government has today opened consultation on draft planning rules to include consideration of mobile coverage in new housing developments.
 
The proposed amendments to the Telecommunications in New Developments (TIND) policy would place an expectation on developers to actively consider the inclusion of mobile infrastructure in new developments, in a similar way as other services – such as water and electricity – are currently considered.
 
The current planning policies focus on providing land-line telephone and broadband services. However, a significant number of people living in new communities report inadequate or no mobile coverage after moving into their new homes, and this can remain the case for years.
 
Not including mobile coverage in the design of new developments or expanding suburbs risks leaving residents in those areas behind when it comes to digital connectivity and inclusion.
 
In addition to expanding the scope to include mobile connectivity, the proposed amendments are intended to improve engagement between developers, carriers and other interested stakeholders.
 
Feedback on the proposed changes will inform decisions on the expansion of TIND policy to include mobile infrastructure.
 
Interested parties are encouraged to have their say on the draft amendments to the TIND Policy by 5pm AEDT on Wednesday, 8 November 2023 by emailing new.developments@infrastructure.gov.au.
 
To view the draft TIND policy or to make a submission, please visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say/