ACCAN Supports Call for Improved Emergency Standards
SYDNEY — The Australian Government has announced a comprehensive review of the Triple Zero emergency call system, aiming to address reliability issues and improve service performance, according to a statement by Communications Minister Anika Wells.
The review, which will evaluate the existing legislative framework, follows recent outages and concerns over 3G network shutdowns, prompting calls for better regulatory measures. The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) has expressed strong support for the initiative.
Findings from ACCAN’s Consumer Sentiment Tracker indicate that 74% of Australians favour stronger government regulation of telecommunications providers, with 76% backing minimum reliability standards for mobile networks. ACCAN CEO Carol Bennett emphasised the urgency of the review, stating, “This is Triple Zero. It’s public safety 101, and the reliable delivery of emergency services is the most critical issue the telecommunications sector faces.”
Public Confidence and System Modernization
ACCAN highlighted the need for regulatory oversight in the telecommunications sector, which currently lacks enforceable service standards for mobile networks. Bennett pointed out that public confidence in the system is at worrying lows due to unplanned outages and device compatibility issues. The establishment of the Triple Zero Custodian aims to modernise and enhance the system’s resilience.
The review comes amid growing demand for improved emergency services and follows a trend in the sector towards enhancing public safety measures. ACCAN plans to actively participate in the review process to ensure a modern, accountable, and resilient emergency call system for Australians.
The review is expected to align with international standards and best practices, addressing not only current challenges but also anticipating future technological advancements. This forward-thinking approach aims to provide a robust framework that can adapt to evolving technologies and ensure seamless integration with global emergency systems, thereby reinforcing public trust and safety.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 3 April 2026, 11:16 am
