OutstationTelephones in Qld

Community Telephones – Description

In a nutshell

The community telephones project provides satellite telephones for outstations and people going to country.  The project is managed by the Department of Broadband Communications and the Digital Economy and is called the Indigenous Communication Program  -  Community Telephones Element.

Digital Learning Futures has been contracted as Community Liaison Officers to assist communities to apply for a phone. Michelle and Paul will meet people on country, at the outstations or in the communities to talk about the phone project and fill in the application form.

Sucesses so far

How to apply

Things to know

This project will support the supply, monitoring and maintenance of community phones. The program is funded until 30 June 2013.

The project will provide and support public satellite phones for communities of less than 50 people (including outstations and camps) that meet eligibility criteria.

• 50 people
• Permanent population for 6 months of a year
• More than 5 km to the nearest public phone

Communities of between 6 and 50 people will be supplied with a public fixed phone. It will be a satelite service  powered by solar panels. These communities may be able to obtain a mobile handset until a fixed phone is installed.

Communities of less than 6 can be supplied with a mobile satellite  handset.

Phones are free. Some calls are free and maintenance will be provided, though malicious damage may not be constantly supported.

For calls which are not free a phone card is needed. Paul and Michelle will negotiate supply of phone cards or talk to a nearby shop to supply them.

Getting a phone

To discuss an application, call Michelle and Paul at any time. 0418750 236 or email at learningfutures@ozemail.com.au

Communities can download a brochure, poster or application form  from the “How to apply” page on this web site.