The Australian Government Advances Regional Telecommunications Reform
Image Credit: NASA Hubble Space Telescope
Media Release: The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Communications and Minister for Sport
The Australian Government is taking significant steps to improve connectivity across Australia with the release of draft legislation for the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO). This initiative aims to ensure that mobile voices and text services are accessible outdoors almost anywhere Australians can see the sky.
As part of the Government’s response to the 2024 Regional Telecommunications Review, UOMO is expected to expand basic outdoor mobile coverage by over 5 million square kilometres. The reform will benefit regional and remote communities by enhancing access to essential telecommunications services, particularly in areas currently underserved.
Mobile network operators will be required to provide reasonable outdoor coverage using a mix of existing infrastructure and emerging direct-to-device (D2D) technology, supported by Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOSats). This approach is designed to modernise Australia’s universal service arrangements and reduce digital divide.
The Government is inviting feedback on the draft legislation until 19 October2025. Alongside this, it continues to invest in programs such as the Mobile Black Spot Program and the Mobile Network Hardening Program to improve mobile coverage, resilience, and capacity.
Additional efforts include upgrades to the NBN and the expansion of its fixed wireless footprint. NBN Co will also use LEOSats from Project Kuiper to deliver high-speed broadband to rural and remote areas.
These reforms reflect the Government’s commitment to supporting economic growth, increasing productivity, and meeting Australia’s growing demand for reliable digital connectivity.
