ACCC launches year-long probe into regional mobile coverage, roaming and satellite use

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has initiated a year-long investigation into mobile coverage deficiencies across regional and remote Australia. The inquiry will consider compulsory domestic roaming, requiring operators to let users connect to rival networks when their own signal is unavailable, and will explore mandatory sharing of radio access infrastructure such as towers. Triggered by advocacy from groups like ACCAN and recommendations from the 2024 Regional Telecommunications Review, the ACCC will release a discussion paper and hold stakeholder forums throughout the country.

Commissioner Anna Brakey highlighted the growing relevance of satellite-based direct-to-device services and the need for a careful, consultative approach. The regulator will also evaluate how evolving mobile usage, competition levels, and low-earth-orbit satellites could affect future investment. Government officials noted the timing aligns with the Albanese administration’s Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation plan, which aims to ensure basic voice and SMS access outdoors nationwide.