With less than one week until submissions close for the Regional Telecommunications Review, people across the Western Plains are being urged to speak up about their phone and internet connection issues.

The Regional Telecommunications Review, held every three years, is perhaps the best opportunity for regional issues to be heard and, with any luck, to drive change for people and businesses who have become victim to an inferior system.

NSW Farmers Rural Affairs Committee Chair Garry Grant says more country voices are needed and is urging community members to come forward with their stories, building enough evidence that would be ‘too big to ignore’.

“How on earth are we supposed to keep up with the rest of the world when on the farm you’d nearly be better off with two tin cans and a length of string?” Mr Grant said.

Of course, the complaints of locals across the Western Plains extend far beyond being unable to stream Netflix, or even making a call from the paddock.

As technology is increasingly integrated into business activities, running a business without sufficient connectivity becomes near impossible, down to the smallest details.

“We rely on farmers to produce the food we eat, but every day they’re struggling with the basics of modern life,” Mr Grant said.

For example, two-factor authentication for banking requires receiving a code via text message, preventing those without phone service from accessing their own account.

“You need a decent phone and internet connection these days, things like working from home or home schooling were a challenge for people in Balmain, let alone Brewarrina,” Mr Grant said.

According to Chair of the Review Committee Luke Hartsuyker says that the review is an opportunity to inform policy that could make big differences.

Regional Telecommunication Reviews of previous years has led to initiatives such as the Blackspot Mobile Program, Regional Connectivity Program and the establishment of regional tech hubs.

Still, according to a recent survey of NSW Farmers members, roughly two thirds of respondents have experienced a decline in mobile network coverage and internet connectivity, meaning that more is needed.

“The review has two ideas. One is to provide a card on the state of play in regional communications. And the second is to provide recommendations to government as to enhancements that can be made in the regional telecommunications regime,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

“The challenge we have is that each location has its own specific nuances,” he added.

So far, the feedback reported has presented three main issues: mobile phone connectivity, internet speed, and difficulties in reporting faults and the long wait times for repairs that accompany that.

None are particularly simple nor cheap to fix and will require a roar from the bush to gain the attention of government. 

“We know we live outside the city and our members have bought the boosters and aerials they need – now it’s time for the Telcos and government to step up and do their part to keep Australia’s farms working,” said Mr Grant. 

Submissions for the Regional Telecommunications Review close Thursday September 30 at 5pm. Evidence can be submitted through the consultation page, by emailing to [email protected], or via post.