Community feedback on the enhanced short-term communication options for Lord Howe Island (LHI) was collected in November 2023.
The survey outcomes indicated that a majority of residents prefer maintaining the island’s distinct way of life regarding connectivity. Many respondents feel that it’s better to wait for future technology advancements rather than invest in a short-term solution.
Based on the results of LHIB’s online survey and responses to the connectivity proposal, the LHI Board reviewed the following next steps at the December 2023 Board Meeting:
- Decline Owners Consent for installing a Microcell under the blackspot program, refrain from using grant resources for additional Microcell installations and await future technology like 5G advanced/6G on Lord Howe Island.
- Reassess the communications landscape in 2-3 years to identify any communication gaps post the introduction of 5G Advanced/6G. LHIB can explore future grants to address any deficiencies identified.
- Permit market forces to independently install and operate public Wi-Fi.
- Seek a variance to the SCCF round 5 grant and consider reallocating the remaining funds to other projects meeting fund requirements.
The recommendation to decline the Owner’s Consent for Telstra to install a microcell on Lord Howe Island as part of the Blackspot program was endorsed.
The survey also endorsed the notion that the market (e.g., Telstra/independent operators) should address demands for improved connectivity rather than LHIB.
Future national infrastructure such as 5G Advanced/6G is anticipated to be accessible to the Island from mid-late 2025.
For queries regarding the survey results, contact Senior Project Officer Darcelle Matassoni at Darcelle.Matassoni@lhib.nsw.gov.au.
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