WA’s former regional development minister Alannah MacTiernan will lead the upcoming regional telecommunications review.

The review is undertaken every three years to understand the experiences of Australians who live and work in rural, regional and remote communities with regard to telecommunications services.

In particular, the committee will look at factors that are causing inequitable access to telecommunications compared to urban areas, and consider regulatory settings and solutions.

It will also consider the needs of First Nations’ communities, the effectiveness of existing government investment programs, emerging technologies, universal services obligations and telecommunications in emergency situations.

Communications minister Michelle Rowland said all Australians should have access to quality communications services regardless of  where they live or work.

“The independent review committee has the right experience and expertise to deliver a comprehensive assessment of the state of regional telecommunications in Australia,” she said in a statement.

“I look forward to receiving the committee’s final report at the end of this year, and I strongly encourage communities to have their say to ensure we get the best communications outcomes for rural and regional Australians”.

Ms MacTiernan will be supported by an independent committee comprised of Kristy Sparrow, Fiona Nash, Dr Jessa Rogers and Ian Kelly.

Public consultation kicks off in April, with a final report due to government by the end of December 2024.