The Australian Communications Consumer Advocacy Network (ACCAN) has intensified pressure on the federal government to mandate domestic mobile roaming, citing an urgent need to address regional coverage gaps and rising service costs. A new report from the group highlights that 73% of Australians support the measure, which would allow users to switch to available networks when outside their primary provider’s coverage area.
ACCAN CEO Carol Bennett stated that the current lack of domestic roaming puts Australians at a disadvantage compared to international tourists who can roam freely. The proposal aims to mirror successful models in countries like Canada, where mandated roaming and tower-sharing have bolstered regional connectivity and lowered consumer prices.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) previously rejected mandatory roaming in 2017, arguing it could stifle infrastructure investment. However, the regulator recently signaled a shift, noting that significant technological changes—including the sunsetting of 3G, the expansion of 5G, and the rise of satellite-to-handset technology—warrant a fresh look at the policy. While the ACCC did not commit to a new inquiry, it confirmed it is monitoring market conditions.
Major telecommunications providers remain divided. Telstra has expressed concern that roaming could degrade network quality during high-demand periods, while Optus acknowledged that the policy could drive competitive outcomes in remote areas. TPG, the owner of Vodafone, voiced support, stating that such discussions are long overdue.
Regional residents continue to face significant challenges. In towns like Ladysmith, New South Wales, the reliance on a single provider leaves businesses and residents unable to process payments or maintain essential communications during outages. Analysts suggest that integrating network infrastructure is a necessary step toward building a more resilient national telecommunications framework.