Future communications could be written in the stars with LEO satellites

A new report released by the Albanese Government today has described the potential positive impacts of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites could have on the connectivity and productivity of our mining and agriculture sectors. 

The report, developed by the Bureau of Communications, Arts, and Regional Research, will in part support the work of the LEOSat Working Group which brings together industry, regulators and the Government’s First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group to guide future reforms and leverage the benefits of LEO satellites in Australia.

LEO satellites are an emerging technology that will provide faster and more reliable communications for users outside of fixed and mobile broadband coverage, particularly those in remote and rural areas, promoting a range of economic and social benefits. 

The report found Australia to be an attractive market for LEO satellites. The agriculture and mining sectors, which have significant presence outside of fixed and mobile coverage footprints, are expected to see increased productivity and efficiency of their operations as a result of using digital technologies supported by improved connectivity. 

In addition to increased productivity, these innovations in technology will provide social and health benefits, including improved accessibility to emergency and safety services and reduced consumption of scarce resources.

Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, established the Working Group and Advisory Group in 2023 to support the Government’s commitment to get Australians connected, including primary producers and First Nations communities.

Further work is planned to better understand the specific benefits that LEO satellites could bring and their impacts on connectivity. 

For more information on the Analysis of Low Earth Orbit Satellites: Implications for Australia’s agriculture and mining sectors report visit here. 

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

“A reliable communications network for regional and remote Australia is the key to unlocking wider benefits for business including improving productivity, social and health benefits.”

“Our government wants to explore all options available to us to continue to improve regional and remote communications, which could unlock new opportunities for two of the biggest industries of our economy, the agriculture and mining sectors.”