Connectivity
Check mobile coverage by postcode for all Australian networks with one search
By entering their post code community members can see what mobile network has coverage in their area.
Results from the database show indoor and outdoor coverage for voice calls, 3G data, 4G (LTE) data, and 5G data for every postcode in Australia for the following carriers – Optus, Telstra and Vodafone.
This information can be used in conjunction with comparison websites.
Lots of advertising on the website.
Format: Database
Language: English
Accessibility: –
Content developer: Mobilecoverageaustralia.com
Computer literacy ability level: Demonstrate to Beginner. Provide link to Intermediate/Advanced.
Regional Tech Hub Connectivity Report
Community members can fill out an online form and receive a report that details the best internet connection option in their area
The form is online so requires an internet connection to complete and lodge. They also require an email address for the report to be sent to. Personal details will need to be provided.
There is a minimum of four weeks to receive the report. There is no cost.
Format: Online form
Language: English
Accessibility: There is an accessibility tool that supports text size increase and text font style changes
Content developer: National Farmers’ Federation in collaboration with the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network and Better Internet for Rural, Regional and Remote Australia (BIRRR)
Computer literacy ability level: Beginner/Intermediate level community members may need assistance filling in the form and then interpreting the report provided to them
Discover my internet options
This page provides an overview of the different internet options available across Australia and how community members can find which option(s) is/are available to them.
This information may be relevant for those who do not yet have a connection or for those that cannot wait the minimum four weeks for a Regional Tech Hub Connectivity Report to be provided.
The information on this webpage is very complicated. It is recommended that financial counsellors spend some time understanding the information before referring anyone to this webpage.
Format: Video (2.51 mins), fact sheet and written online information
Language: English
Accessibility: There is an accessibility tool that supports text size increase and text font style changes
Content developer: National Farmers’ Federation in collaboration with the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network and Better Internet for Rural, Regional and Remote Australia (BIRRR)
Computer literacy ability level: All levels will need someone to support them access and understand the information on this webpage (financial counsellor or support worker)
Skype
Skype is a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service that enables people to make and receive voice and video calls over the internet using a computer, web browser or mobile phone. It is suitable for both Windows and Mac users.
Skype is free using Skype to Skype calls, but there are costs for voicemail, SMS texts, or calls to a landline, cell phone, or outside of Skype.
VoIP get priority on all internet servers, leading to higher quality calls. There are some in app purchases e.g. 5 min free call to mobile.
Explain that data usage applies. Skype may be a good option for community members who have a good internet service but poor mobile coverage and/or no landline.
Format: Online information
Language: English
Accessibility: –
Content developer: Microsoft
Computer literacy ability level: Intermediate/Advanced
Private messaging service that could be useful for remote community members with no/poor mobile coverage.
The app has internet free messaging to other WhatsApp users and free calls to other WhatsApp users including international calls.
Explain that data usage applies.
The app can be downloaded to both android and Apple devices (mobile and desktop).
The app has disappearing, encrypted messages, with optional password function, so may be of use for family and domestic violence clients.
Format: Online information
Language: English
Accessibility: –
Content developer: WhatsApp LLC
Computer literacy ability level: All levels
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Association of Western Australia.
FCAWA is located on land belonging to the Whadjuk Noongar people, and we recognise their connection to country. Sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.
