Wilson Welcomes Regional Mobile Coverage Inquiry

MR RICK WILSON MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR O’CONNOR

6^th August 2026

Wilson Welcomes Regional Mobile Coverage Inquiry

Federal Member for O'Connor Rick Wilson has welcomed the ACCC's decision to investigate mobile coverage and competition in regional Australia, saying people across regional Western Australia know first-hand that connectivity remains a serious challenge. Mr Wilson has echoed the praises of his Coalition colleagues that the regulator will examine issues including mobile coverage, network reliability and whether domestic mobile roaming should be mandated.

Mr Wilson said mobile black spots and unreliable coverage remain a common frustration across O'Connor.

"Anyone who spends time on the road in regional WA knows the feeling. You're halfway between towns, trying to make a call, check directions or contact someone, and there's simply no reception."

"In an electorate as large as O'Connor, people travel long distances every day. For many families, farmers, truck drivers and small business owners, reliable mobile coverage can range from patchy to non-existent.”

Mr Wilson said the issue extends beyond convenience.

"Good connectivity is important for safety, particularly when people are travelling long distances or dealing with emergencies. It is also increasingly important for running a business, accessing services and staying connected with family."

Mr Wilson said regional WA's popularity with visitors had also placed additional pressure on telecommunications infrastructure.

"We live in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia and more people are discovering that every year."

"That's great news for our tourism operators and local economies, but I regularly hear from communities where networks struggle during peak holiday periods because the infrastructure hasn't kept pace with demand."

"Locals shouldn't find themselves fighting for a signal because the network is overloaded."

Mr Wilson said he shared the concerns raised by Coalition communications spokespersons that regional Australians deserve better telecommunications services and welcomed the ACCC taking a fresh look at options to improve coverage and reliability.

"This inquiry is a chance for regional Australians to tell their stories and explain the challenges they face."

"I would encourage anyone who has experienced poor coverage, black spots or unreliable service to consider making a submission to the ACCC. The experiences of regional communities should be front and centre in this review."

ENDS

Media contact: Reuben Keyser
Communications and Community Engagement Adviser
[email protected]
(08) 9842 2777
0455 125 035