QUEENSLAND farm group AgForce has welcomed an announcement that the Productivity Commission will inquire into how the telecommunications market is evolving in rural Australia.
AgForce vice-president Georgie Somerset, who also chairs the group’s telecommunications committee, said the inquiry into the telecommunications Universal Service Obligation (USO) was timely and relevant given rapid advances in technology.
"The USO has helped provide access to standard telephone services and payphones to all Australians for many years, but now Australians are using a range of technologies," Ms Somerset said.
"Regional Australians are now seeking more flexibility. Some don't have a landline, only a mobile phone, and there is no protection for data provisions and costs.
"Our members in AgForce require effective and affordable mobile phone services and data access to run their businesses, for education purposes and to maintain their social networks.”
Ms Somerset said effective telecommunications technology was both an economic and social lifeline.
"Government expects people to work with them online through the myGov website and the Digital Transformation Office, but for many people living in regional areas, that's just not possible,” Ms Somerset said.
"The primary policy question to be addressed in this inquiry is to what extent, in the evolving Australian telecommunications market, Government policies may be required to support universal access to a minimum level of retail telecommunication services.
"The Federal Government's Mobile Blackspot Programme has been warmly welcomed and has made a real difference for many regional Australians.
"AgForce would like to see the program maintained and extended in next week's Federal Budget and this inquiry will provide clarity on how infrastructure development can be enhanced to benefit regional Australians.
"Having access to mobile phone and internet services is just so essential for business, and of course it's important to be able to keep in touch with family and friends.
"AgForce looks forward to working with Minister for Regional Communications Fiona Nash to develop effective telecommunications solutions to ensure regional Australia is better connected."
