The Leader of The Nationals WA, Shane Love MLA, has accused Telstra and the Federal
Government of abandoning regional telecommunications customers, as poor mobile phone
connectivity continues to pose significant safety risks and disrupt critical services across
Western Australia.
Countless regional residents and businesses have been left with unreliable or non-existent
mobile service following Telstra’s shutdown of the 3G network in October.
Mr Love has been urging both Telstra and the Albanese Labor Government to provide adequate
alternatives to address this escalating crisis.
“I’ve written to Telstra’s CEO and the Minister for Communications to outline the havoc caused
by the shutdown of the 3G network. I reiterated that Telstra has a social obligation to ensure no
community is left behind,” Mr Love said.
“The response I’ve received from Telstra is deeply disappointing. There doesn’t appear to be
any urgency or understanding of the critical need to resolve this issue.”
Considering Telstra’s inaction, Mr Love has called on the Federal Government to hold the
telecommunications provider accountable and guarantee that all Australians, regardless of
where they live, have access to reliable telecommunications.
“This neglect is simply unacceptable. Connectivity is not a luxury; it is an essential service,
particularly in areas prone to bushfires or with limited access to health services,” Mr Love said.
While regional areas have been the most severely impacted, Mr Love said those on the
metropolitan fringe are also feeling the impacts of the 3G shutdown.
“My office has received numerous examples of business customers in the outer metropolitan
area repeatedly reporting issues to Telstra, yet they continue to face worsening connectivity
and unfulfilled promises of case resolution.”
“These issues highlight the urgent need for accountability and reliable telecommunications in
both regional and fringe metropolitan areas.”
Mr Love is urging all affected residents and businesses to sharee their experiences.
“The Nationals WA will continue to fight to ensure that everyone gets the mobile
service they pay for.”
