October 1, 2026
Better connections for mobile phone users in regional and rural areas during disasters are more likely following the launch of “Temporary Disaster Roaming” (TDR) on October 1.
Mobile phones will be able to connect to another carrier’s mobile network if their own network is down during the disaster.
Users will be able to make calls, send and receive texts and access basic data, at no extra charge.
However, TDR will only be switched on in situations where it can be done safely and without affecting emergency communications.
TDR may not be available where damage has taken down all networks nearby, during some power outages, or on some older model smartphones that do not support VoLTE roaming.
It also will not work for non-smartphone connected devices, including medical alarms, EFTPOS terminals or other connected devices.
The new emergency capability has been developed after industry collaboration.
