Bridging the communications gap
Major flood and bushfire inquiries have repeatedly highlighted the loss of mobile and internet services as one of the most serious challenges communities face during disasters. When commercial networks go down, people can be cut off – unable to call for help, receive warnings, access vital information or contact loved ones. Emergency services also rely on communications to coordinate their response, and network failures can compromise their ability to act quickly and effectively.
The self-powered and trailer-mounted broadband Cells on Wheels (COWs) are designed for rapid deployment, bringing vital connectivity to disaster-impacted areas within hours. Each unit combines satellite backhaul, multiple power options and wi-fi access to create temporary coverage. They can operate on mains power, solar or backup generators, ensuring 24/7 reliability even in challenging conditions. Units can also link together to extend coverage further, keeping communities connected when they need it most.
The COWs were put to the test during Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025, when severe winds and flooding caused widespread power and telecommunications outages across northern NSW. With mobile and landline services down, NSW Telco Authority deployed units to evacuation centres in Kingscliff, Murwillumbah and Ocean Shores, with another on standby in Coffs Harbour. These mobile units gave people free wi-fi access at a critical time. Residents were able to contact family and friends, access emergency information and even make Triple Zero calls via wi-fi when mobile networks were unavailable. Once services were restored, the units were returned to staging, ready for their next deployment.
From the start, this initiative was shaped by the people it serves. We spoke directly with nearly 50 community members who had experienced natural disasters, listening to their stories of panic and isolation when disconnected. Their feedback informed everything from the simple user experience to multilingual support materials developed by Multicultural NSW. We also worked closely with stakeholders such as the Welfare Services Functional Area to ensure the service meets the needs of evacuation centres and support agencies on the ground.
This is the first time the NSW Government has delivered emergency mobile connectivity directly for public use. Unlike commercial carriers, which focus on nationwide emergency response, our broadband COWs are dedicated to serving NSW communities. This means they can be pre-staged for rapid deployment to critical locations like evacuation centres and emergency operations hubs.
By bridging the communications gap when disasters strike, broadband COWs are more than just technology. They are a vital link between people, help and hope. They ensure that when everything else is down, communities can still connect, stay informed and call for help.
