ELON Musk’s SpaceX satellite network is part of a technology breakthrough for regional and rural telecommunications that will finally provide connectivity in areas plagued by no mobile coverage. The billionaire’s Starlink satellites will soon team up with Telstra to deliver mobile connectivity in rural, regional, and remote areas. Shadow Regional Communications Minister Anne Webster said the joint enterprise was a ‘fabulous’ step forward for people in the bush. “This is the biggest breakthrough we’ve had in regional communications for some time,” Dr Webster said. “I’ve been talking for a long time about working through satellite as being the only real solution.” The service allows for mobile phones to connect directly with the Starlink satellites and is currently only available for Samsung Galaxy S25 handsets. Apple devices and full voice call capability is expected to be in operation by 2027. TPG and Optus are also developing their own mobile-to-satellite capability with Lynk Global and Starlink respectively. Dr Webster said Australia was unique with its small population and relatively large distances. “This is a genuinely regional solution for a ubiquitous problem we all experience if we live and work in the regions,” she said. “I thoroughly support this great leap forward.”
