It has been an exciting few months for the Telco Authority since the last Board Meeting in February.
The Board discussed updates to the draft NSW Government Operational Communications Strategy following further consultation with agencies and other stakeholders. The enhanced governance arrangements developed through this consultation will provide a substantive platform to ensure the long term sustainability and relevance of the strategy in an ever-changing environment.
A preliminary business case for the infrastructure rationalisation program was presented to the Gateway Review Team at the end of March and is one of the key programs contemplated in the Strategy. It matches existing coverage and, for most agencies, greatly improves coverage while addressing inefficiencies in the delivery model of the current NSW Government radio infrastructure.
The Board reviewed the proposed performance parameters of future radio networks. Developed through consultation with public safety agencies throughout our planning projects, these performance parameters are designed to ensure that agencies benefit from the coverage, capacity, availability and voice quality needed to provide their critical services to the community.
The Board also considered a number of updates to National Spectrum Governance. The Authority is taking the lead and working in conjunction with our colleagues from other jurisdictions to develop revised national arrangements for the jurisdictional coordination and consideration of spectrum-related matters. The revised arrangements will seek to replace the current approach with a more coordinated and cohesive effort with spectrum users directly reporting to a single body.
The Board continued its focus on risk management and assurance being provided with preliminary advice on the recommendations from two internal audits focused on ensuring we have the right security and management arrangements in place for our mission-critical networks.
Finally, on behalf of the Board, I would like to congratulate Minister Perrottet on his reappointment as Minister for Finance, Services and Property. The Board looks forward to continuing working with the Minister and would like to acknowledge his interest and support of the Authority’s program for reform, particularly in relation to the development of the NSW Government Operational Communications Strategy.
Regards,
Rod Gilmour
Chairperson, NSW Telco Authority