The 5G rollout has attracted some negative commentary in the Australian media and on social media platforms about the safety of the technology, even though many scientific studies in Australia and overseas have found no health risks.
In 2020, Australia's Chief Medical Officer confirmed there is no evidence telecommunications technologies, including 5G, cause adverse health impacts.82 Two subsequent studies conducted by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA)and Swinburne University of Technology reached similar conclusions.
Many health concerns focus on the safety of radiation levels and links to chronic diseases and the COVID 19 pandemic. Yet, while 5G will use higher radio frequencies than 3G and 4G networks, the radiation is far lower than the strictly regulated limits set by the ARPANSA.83
Despite the scientific and health advice, community confidence in 5G has been shaken by misinformation. Some telecommunications hardware has been criminally damaged, risking community safety.
The Standing Committee on Communications and the Arts was asked by the Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts to inquire into and report on the deployment, adoption and application of 5G in Australia. The Committee received hundreds of submissions from action groups and individuals with concerns about perceived 5G-related health issues, many to do with electromagnetic radiation.84
In 2020, the Committee made several recommendations, including that the ARPANSA should consult more with members of the public about their concerns.85
Building on work already undertaken by the Australian Government to build community confidence in 5G safety, further communications that address misinformation should be prioritised as part of the public dialogue.