How we’re helping keep communities connected
Bushfires, floods and major storms put lives at risk – and in those moments, communication becomes the backbone of emergency response. First responders need secure, reliable channels to coordinate their response efforts, protect lives and keep communities safe. If radios fail or agencies can’t talk to one another, the consequences can be life-threatening.
That’s why NSW Telco Authority operates the NSW Public Safety Network (PSN) – the secure radio network used by first responders, essential services and public safety agencies right across the state. It’s second only to Triple Zero in importance and it’s helping emergency workers save lives every day.
The Critical Communications Enhancement Program (CCEP) is one of the largest public safety radio programs in Australia. It’s extending PSN coverage into more regional and remote communities than ever before, so help can reach people faster, no matter where they are.
Few places in the world have the climate diversity we do, with our teams overcoming snow, desert heat and remote terrain to get the job done. Their dedication is delivering a world-class communications system that gives first responders the coverage they need, when and where they need it.
- NSW Telco Authority Managing Director Kylie De Courteney.
From Broken Hill to Bondi Beach, the PSN now reaches coastlines, rivers, alpine regions, deserts and even busy indoor spaces like hospitals, shopping centres, airports and tunnels. Behind each new site is extraordinary engineering – from steep ridgelines at Boundary Mountain and snow-covered tracks at Mount Youngal, to flood-prone plains around Booligal and Urisino.
The CCEP isn’t just about coverage – it’s about resilience. Every new site, every kilometre of extended coverage, and every extra layer of security helps save lives. By supporting emergency responders with the critical communications they rely on, we’re helping communities stay safe and stay connected when disasters strike.
