The NSW Telco Authority has announced a request for proposal from the telecommunications industry to undertake a proof of concept for a national Public Safety Mobile Broadband (PSMB) capability.
Managing Director of NSW Telco Authority Kate Foy said state and territory public safety agencies have been calling for a dedicated public safety mobile broadband network at a national level to support their mission-critical operations for several years.
"NSW has been working in close collaboration with representatives from the Commonwealth and all the other Australian states and territories in developing the next steps towards a national PSMB capability," Ms Foy said.
"The delivery model was informed by a national Request for Information that was conducted earlier this year.
"We are now inviting the telecommunications industry to come on board to submit proposals through the Request for Proposal (RFP) process. This will test that the PSMB delivery model meets the requirements of a national PSMB capability.
"By participating in the proof of concept, industry can provide solutions for innovative and cutting-edge equipment that can be integrated by public safety agencies into their mission-critical communications portfolios.
"The RFP also provides an opportunity for carriers and equipment suppliers to have a direct influence on the roadmap for a national PSMB capability in Australia."
The proof of concept will test the PSMB delivery model across urban, regional and remote locations in Australia over six to twelve months expected to begin in early 2019.
The RFP opened on 24 October 2018 and closed on 5 December 2018.