New law requires nationwide mobile coverage by 2027 or later
Australia's three major mobile networks must now provide basic phone and text service across the whole country.
A new law passed this week requires Telstra, Optus, and TPG to provide basic mobile coverage across the whole country. Currently, mobile coverage only reaches less than one-third of Australia's land.
The Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO) bill makes basic voice and text service required across the country. Telcos can use towers or satellites to do this.
Only Starlink offers direct-to-device satellite service right now. The timeline is unclear.
The default deadline is December 31, 2027. This date can move to December 2030 if needed.
Minister Anika Wells wants it by December 1, 2027. But industry says that is not realistic.
- 98 per cent of Australians
- Mobile phone users
- December 31, 2027
- Target deadline
- Telstra, Optus, TPG
- Required carriers
Why it mattersRural and remote Australians have long lacked reliable mobile access. This affects emergency response and economic opportunity.
AustraliaMillions of Australians in remote regions currently lack mobile coverage; this law aims to fix that gap by requiring nationwide service.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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