The Northern Territory is the least densely populated territory or state in Australia. According to the 2006 census we have 192,898 people spread over 1 346 000 square kilometres. This sparsity of population, 1 person per 69 square kilometres, adds significantly to infrastructure costs associated with communications services.
It is the aim of the Northern Territory Government to improve telecommunications in areas that are currently inadequately serviced. To that end, the Communications Section developed the Remote Area Telecommunications Strategy. (word document that requires downloading).
Current available options include fixed telephones, mobile (GSM and NextG ) phones as well as satellite telephones each of which has separate coverage areas. The Next G network is due for full implementation by 28 January 2008 at which time the current CDMA network will be deactivated if the same or better service level can be achieved.
If you have a complaint regarding telecommunications services you can contact either the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission or the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman. The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman is an office of last resort. This means that before contacting them you must have tried to resolve your complaint with your service provider.
The Australian Communications Authority (ACA) Tool Kit is an information portal designed to help you choose the best value mobile, Internet and fixed line products and services to meet your unique needs.
Last Updated 21 December 2007