Albanese Government proposes new rules to improve mobile coverage in new developments

The Albanese Government has today opened consultation on draft planning rules to include consideration of mobile coverage in new housing developments.

 

The proposed amendments to the Telecommunications in New Developments (TIND) policy would place an expectation on developers to actively consider the inclusion of mobile infrastructure in new developments, in a similar way as other services – such as water and electricity – are currently considered.

 

The current planning policies focus on providing land-line telephone and broadband services. However, a significant number of people living in new communities report inadequate or no mobile coverage after moving into their new homes, and this can remain the case for years.

 

Not including mobile coverage in the design of new developments or expanding suburbs risks leaving residents in those areas behind when it comes to digital connectivity and inclusion.

 

In addition to expanding the scope to include mobile connectivity, the proposed amendments are intended to improve engagement between developers, carriers and other interested stakeholders.

 

Feedback on the proposed changes will inform decisions on the expansion of TIND policy to include mobile infrastructure.

 

Interested parties are encouraged to have their say on the draft amendments to the TIND Policy by 5pm AEDT on Wednesday, 8 November 2023 by emailing new.developments@infrastructure.gov.au.

 

To view the draft TIND policy or to make a submission, please visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say/

 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:



"In 2023, it's unacceptable that many Australians moving into new homes in greenfield suburbs don't have access to reliable mobile coverage.



“Our current planning policies don’t reflect the reality that reliable mobile service is just as important as electricity and running water.

 

“That’s why the Albanese Government is working to update our planning rules. Consultation on these possible new requirements will mean that Australians have access to the quality services they need and rightly expect.

 

“I strongly encourage interested stakeholders to provide their feedback on the proposed changes to ensure we land updated planning rules that are workable and deliver the best outcomes for new communities."