Boyce calls for senate inquiry into regional telecommunications

Flynn MP Colin Boyce has called for a senate inquiry into the multiple black spots that still plague regional Queensland residents and businesses.

The Member for Flynn Colin Boyce has called for a senate inquiry into regional telecommunications. Image credit Brad Hunter, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

Federal Flynn MP Colin Boyce has called for a Senate Inquiry into the state of regional telecommunications, claiming some of the countries largest companies are putting profits ahead of people.

Mr Boyce said ongoing concerns raised by constituents across the Flynn electorate had become “seriously distressing”.

According to a March 2023 report, the state is home to hundreds of service black spots, locations which have cost people not only business, but also their lives.

In 2014, Brendan Lamb of Duckinwilla lost his father, Graham, after poor service in his area limited communication with emergency services.

Data reveals every mobile black spot in Queensland

Flynn MP Colin Boyce.

Mr Lamb and his wife tried to give Graham CPR, but could not revive him due to being unable to get clear instructions from emergency services because of the poor phone reception.

The heartbreak of Mr Lamb’s situation is one of many stories, despite a December 2023 announcement from the Federal Government that $170.2 million was awarded for 136 mobile and broadband solutions to be implemented across Australia.

Mr Boyce said despite such announcements, regional telecommunication continued to be a concern for all living in the Flynn electorate. And things are no better in Wide Bay.

“It’s time for the big telecommunications companies such as Telstra and Optus to put people before profit,” he said.

“Things need to change and that is why I am calling for a Senate Inquiry into regional telecommunications as the big telecommunications companies are clearly not meeting their obligations.”

He has called on businesses and residents to come forward with their experiences using telecommunication services across the electorate, and for those concerned to sign the petition backing the call for an inquiry.

“I have also written to the 2024 Regional Telecommunications Review Committee urging them to visit the Flynn electorate and hear directly from stakeholders that have felt the brunt of inadequate telecommunications for far too long,” Mr Boyce said.