Develop mobile back-up batteries

Networks usually use heavy-duty batteries and liquid fuel generators to provide short-term power.39 However, the logistics of transporting these items was a key issue during the 2019-2020 summer bushfires. Normal routes were blocked and it was difficult to secure escorts from emergency services as they were occupied directly for fighting fires.

The Mobile Network Hardening Program (MNHP) is focusing investment on strengthening back-up power supplies to keep mobile infrastructure operating for longer during these kinds of emergencies.

Stage 1 of the MNHP is providing $13.2 million in government funding to the three mobile network operators (Telstra, Optus and TPG Telecom) to extend battery back-up at 467 mobile base stations funded under rounds 1 and 2 of the Mobile Black Spot Program. This will ensure at least 12 hours of back-up power in an emergency situation.

Stage 2 of the MNHP will include a new competitive grants program that will fund upgrades to telecommunications infrastructure at priority regional and remote locations. Upgrades under stage 2 could include further back-up power upgrades, increasing resilience in the backhaul transmission network or other measures that harden the mobile network. In addition, round 5A of the Mobile Black Spot Program prioritises a focus on natural disaster-prone areas, such as high-risk bushfire areas.

To improve the resilience of telecommunications networks in at-risk areas, the MNHP should continue to receive investment to cover more high-risk areas. In addition, energy networks should consider funding selective undergrounding of power cables in high-risk corridors.