Question - Chief Minister

Will the shutdown of the Telstra 3G network impact the operations of the ACT Government in any way; if so, in what way, and what has the Government done to prepare for this eventuality.
 

The upcoming shutdown of the Telstra 3G network has the potential to impact services across the ACT. The ACT Government has commissioned multiple initiatives to negate or minimise the impact to the operations of government and in the delivery of services to Canberrans.

Transport Canberra and City Services (TCCS) has been working closely with its technology and telecommunication partners to retire, replace or upgrade to alternative networks, to continue bus and light rail services, traffic signals monitoring and control, sports grounds lighting and irrigation, and closed circuit television.

Emergency Services Agency (ESA) is working to replace 3G services supporting the ESA 24/7 Communication Centre and frontline emergency response vehicles with 4G / 5G compatible devices prior to the 3G network being decommissioned. 

The ACT Health Directorate operate existing Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) that provide mobile network signal coverage inside Canberra Hospital, Centenary Hospital, and University of Canberra Hospital. A program of work is underway to ensure 4/5G service continuity aligned with telecommunications providers ceasing 3G services. As part of this program, the North Canberra Hospital will have a 4/5G DAS implemented for the first time, to provide consistent coverage across the Canberra Health Service.