This article is a resource for people seeking information on mobile broadband services in Australia. Mobile Broadband is a different technology to NBN Fixed Wireless.
This guide covers information relating to:
- mobile terminology
- how to enhance mobile coverage, and other resources.
Connecting to Mobile Networks in the Rural Environment
STEP 1: Locate your local tower: to find your closest tower using the following link:
The following online guides are recommended for a step by step process to finding towers near you. The two guides below each take a slightly different approach at some steps, so read both and work out what works best for you.
On Wireless Finding Mobile Phone Towers
Australian mobile bands and frequencies available in 2020:
The carrier bandwidth is the single greatest determinate of how fast the mobile data service may operate. There are other factors such as signal strength, Carrier Aggregation and frequency of operation that also affect the speed of service and the distance that the service may be available from the tower.
The Coverage Maps of each Australian mobile carrier can be found here:
The following Australian Mobile Network Guides are useful guides on how to enhance and improve your mobile service:
Guide to Improving Mobile Signal
Guide to Improving Mobile Speeds
Guide to improving Mobile Reception
A desktop site survey can assist you with determining if there is mobile reception in your area and what equipment might be needed to connected.
Telco Antennas desktop site survey cost is $99.
One Wireless desktop site survey cost is $99.
The above businesses can then put you in touch with a specialist in your area who understands the requirements for your state. The report will advise likely signal levels, the sort of mobile services available, the best antenna and extension device for your location and where to point your antenna.
STEP 2: Select the Correct Equipment
See the BIRRR Guide on Selecting the Correct Antenna & How to Point It
Telco Antennas also provide information on antenna and network extension specialists throughout Australia. Please contact them directly for advice on equipment and installers.
What is Legal ?
If you can get some mobile coverage at your location, a network extension device may assist you in boosting your signal.
Passive antennas are usually mounted on the roof (e.g. yagi antennas) and do not require licensing.
Active antennas such as the Celfi’s and Smart Antennas (that require power) do require licensing. If they are not licensed they are ILLEGAL boosters.
Illegal boosters carry a large fine as they can interfere with the mobile network.
” It is an offence under the Radiocommunications Act 1992 (the Act) to operate an unlicensed radiocommunications device, or possess this device for the purpose of operation. A person found guilty of this offence may be imprisoned for two years for each offence. A body corporate may receive a penalty of up to $270,000 (1,500 penalty units) per offence (sections 46 and 47 of the Act). Other penalties may apply, such as the interference offence provisions at Part 4.2 of the Act.” ( ACMA )
Still need more info ? Check out Telco Antennas Frequently Asked Questions
How to extend a mobile data service from a mobile reception location (hill etc) to home
A solar transponder or a mobile data relay may be installed to relay internet from a mobile friendly location on your property back to your home. Here is one DIY example
*Please note, while all care has been taken in compiling BIRRR documents, we recommend that you check with your equipment supplier, installer and service provider regarding your own connection issues and equipment needed. Please ensure that your installer is accredited and licensed and all equipment used is legal to use in Australia.
Updated 01/08/2020
Better Internet for Rural, Regional & Remote Australia (BIRRR) 