Telecommunications Update

Published on 31 July 2025

From the Mayor

Council is continuing its work to improve telecommunications across the Shire and wants to provide the community with a current update on where things stand.

Gwydir Shire Council now has a formal Connectivity Plan in place, developed in collaboration with Telstra, to guide long-term improvements to telecommunications across the region. The plan prioritises addressing mobile coverage issues, congestion, and known blackspots across the Shire. It also focuses on enhancing network resilience through upgraded infrastructure and improved backup power systems. In addition, the plan explores a diverse mix of connectivity solutions — including mobile, NBN, satellite, and emerging technologies — to ensure reliable service across different communities. A strong emphasis is also placed on supporting digital inclusion and strengthening disaster readiness, so that all residents can stay connected and informed when it matters most.

We are still awaiting confirmed upgrade timelines for towers that are yet to be upgraded to the 5g network. Specifically on the Bingara tower, a fault with the power backup system at the Bingara tower has been identified. This site is now being treated as a priority by Telstra. Additionally, there is a major 4G/5G upgrade that is expected to commence later this year.

Council continues to actively advocate to all levels of government. Most recently, the Hon. Barnaby Joyce MP confirmed that Telstra’s regional team is progressing capacity upgrades for the Bingara site and has acknowledged Council’s involvement in the digital planning process. We understand that his office has yet to receive a response from the Minister for Communications, the Hon. Anika Wells MP, in relation to the issues we’ve raised on behalf of the community.

We remain committed to ensuring every community in our Shire is connected, supported, and digitally included — and we’ll continue to keep you updated as this work progresses.

Cr Tiffany Galvin

Mayor