NEW RESEARCH has revealed that nine out of 10 Queensland communities will experience a crippling mobile phone blackout in the event of a natural disaster or cyber attack.
Research by the Local Government Association of Queensland has found that limited competition and sporadic internet speeds would impact thousands of Queenslanders during an emergency event such as a bush fire or flood.
“It is unacceptable that in 2024 we are still seeing such significant disparity in mobile phone coverage and reliability of phone services, particularly in regional, rural and remote areas, including First Nations communities,” LGAQ CEO Alison Smith said.
“The impact of these challenges on community liveability and safety, particularly during disasters or emergency, is profound.”
Ms Smith said the LGAQ was calling on the Queensland Government to support a new formal partnership approach across all levels of government to upgrade infrastructure to improve connectivity.
“It’s clear that the current approach is failing many Queenslanders,” Ms Smith said.
“It’s time for all sides to listen to the communities who feel the daily impact of patchy and failed telecommunication – and support a new way of addressing these challenges.
“Councils know their community needs best – and need to be at the heart of decision making to ensure we close the digital divide for good.”
Cyber blackouts are a realistic threat that could cost Australians thousands in lost revenue, security breaches and data loss.
Research shows that unplanned power outages can cost businesses up to $5600 per minute, while digital attacks targeting the grid could further amplify the risks.
Experts warn that without preparation, Australian businesses and homeowners could face severe financial losses, corrupted data, and compromised security.
A recent review found two-thirds of Queensland’s 77 councils have weaknesses in the security of their information systems.
“Forty-five councils have at least one deficiency in their information technology systems,” the Queensland Auditor-General’s 2023 report of Queensland local government entities stated.
“Fourteen councils have one or more significant deficiencies in their information systems that have not been resolved for over a year.”
