The aim of the Audit is to better identify mobile coverage black spots to help target future investment, and to assess the accuracy of carrier coverage maps.
The department released the request for tender (RFT) on 12 September 2023. The RFT was informed by consultation through a request for information process, including from a range of industry, consumer and community stakeholders.
The RFT will seek proposals to deliver the Audit over a period of up to 5 years and it is anticipated that the Audit will include an initial proof of concept through a pilot, followed by a more comprehensive main audit. The department is also seeking existing and additional mobile coverage data such as crowd-sourced data or data from other audits.
The Audit is part of the Australian Government's Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia. $20 million over 5 years has been allocated to conduct the audit.
The Audit aims to leverage Australia Post infrastructure and assets, alongside other partnerships and approaches.
The RFT will close 15 November 2023.
To apply, and for more information about the RFT, visit Current ATM View—10026946—RFT: AusTender (tenders.gov.au).