Although Telstra, Singtel Optus and TPG Telecom have made significant investments in mobile infrastructure, the ACCC’s report has shown a change in focus towards 5G deployment in major cities.
The Mobile Infrastructure Report, which looked at the mobile infrastructure and coverage maps of the three mobile network operators from 2018 to 2021, showed that the operators have shifted their focus on the rollout of 5G technology.
While the mobile networks continued to invest in network deployment, it was clear that 3G and 4G network deployment has generally slowed.
“This is a significant release of information that will provide transparency on Australia’s mobile networks that were previously not available,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.
“The data can be used to assess where the mobile network operators have been deploying network infrastructure, which will provide more accountability over their investment claims in future years.”
Although the report and underlying data analysis can accurately depict the changes in mobile site infrastructure, assessment of coverage maps provided by the mobile network operators has been challenging.
“We know many consumers in regional areas find it difficult to check what coverage is available in their area. Our own analysis shows that assessing geographic coverage with the network operators’ maps is difficult,” Commissioner Brakey said.
“The mobile network operators use predicted coverage as the basis for their coverage maps, and their input assumptions and metrics are different. They can also change input assumptions from time to time, which makes it difficult to accurately assess coverage changes.”
Commissioner Brakey stated that having comparable and accurate coverage information is critical for all consumers in order for them to make informed choices about their mobile providers.
The ACCC will continue to explore ways to improve the comparability and accuracy of coverage maps provided by the mobile network operators.
The Mobile Infrastructure Report was borne out of the earlier processes and commitments made by the ACCC to improve publicly available information on mobile infrastructure assets and coverage.
The report on 5G deployment in major cities accompanies a package of mobile infrastructure data that the ACCC has made available on their website.
Source: ACCC Media Release