The Federal election was called on 28 March 2025. As this website is hosted by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, the site will only be updated with material in line with the Caretaker Conventions. Please note that the content of this site relates to the Australian Government’s existing policy.

More funding for emergency community Wi-Fi services

The Australian Government is extending and expanding its Strengthening Telecommunications Against Natural Disasters (STAND) program.

Since 2020, the STAND program has seen NBN Co install Sky Muster satellite connections to rural and country fire service depots and evacuation centres across Australia, at a total of 1068 sites.

Additional funding of up to $14 million will extend these vital services at existing locations beyond 2025, as well as expanding Sky Muster services by up to a further 500 sites nationwide.

The Australian Government will work closely with state and territory governments to prioritise areas that do not already have a connectivity solution available at evacuation centres and are at higher risk of natural disasters or emergencies.

This collaborative approach will ensure our investment goes further and more communities will be connected when they need it most.  

The extension of the STAND program will ensure communities are better connected for future high-risk weather seasons – keeping them safer and more informed during natural disasters or emergencies.

Find out more