Have your say: TasFarmers launches connectivity survey after 3G shutdown


21 January 2025

Tasmania's peak body for farmers, TasFarmers, is urging members to speak out about telecommunications and mobile phone coverage issues affecting them across the state.

TasFarmers President Ian Sauer said communication companies such as NBN, Telstra, and Optus need to invest in improving services, especially following outages due to last year's weather events and the closure of the 3G network.

"We’re hearing from farmers about black spots during extreme weather events and ongoing issues since the closure of 3G services across the state, including areas such as Jericho in the south, too Exeter and Pipers Brook in the north," Mr Sauer said. 

Tasmanian farmers are increasingly reliant on the Internet to monitor remote sensors, cameras, and cooling systems, all of which require fast connectivity. 

"Telecommunications companies must recognise that connectivity is vital for the rural sector, It's not just about phone calls and text messages, but also data usage and operating equipment such as centre pivots and remote sensors," Mr Sauer said.

"In the extreme, however, we still have some farmers who can only get one bar of phone service in their house. It's unacceptable in this day and age. 

“It’s also a matter of personal safety when working remotely, as farmers often do. If something goes wrong, whether they need help or suffer an injury, they must be able to make a phone call,” Mr. Sauer said

To make sure your voice is heard, TasFarmers is conducting a Connectivity Survey following the 3G shutdown. If you need assistance, take a few minutes to share your experience in our short survey. This will help us understand the challenges in your area and advocate for improved services

Click here to take the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z8959SS