The BGCCI was invited to appear at a Federal Enquiry to discuss the range of telecommunications challenges faced by the businesses and communities in the Bunbury region of WA, and how governments can help fund the digital infrastructure required to improve it. As a representative of our local business community, we reached out to members asking for their input through an online questionnaire. Thank you to everyone who responded.
Here is a transcript of BCCI CEO, Julie Broad's enquiry presentation.
The Bunbury Geographe region of Western Australia houses the second largest city in WA called Bunbury and includes Harvey, Dardanup and Capel Shires. The region is generally considered an important economic hub within the state.
The Bunbury Port's major imports are caustic soda, methanol, petroleum coke and vegetable oils.
Major exports include alumina, aluminium hydroxide, minerals sands, silica sand, silicon dross, spodumene, woodchips, bunkers and bunkering.
It is home to a significant portion of the state's population and contributes significantly to Western Australia's economy, particularly through industries such as mining, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.
Our survey reached out to 500 members, and we received responses from 26 businesses, representing a diverse range of industries in our region. The findings shed light on the current state of telecommunications services and the repercussions faced by our members. Let's delve into the key findings.
In terms of the quality of telecommunications services, 42% of respondents stated that the services were poor, while 46% found them to be okay. Only 8% regarded the services as good, and 4% rated them as excellent. These results indicate a significant portion of businesses in our region are dissatisfied with the current state of telecommunications infrastructure.
Telecommunications emerged as a critical factor for business operations, with 73% of respondents considering it crucial for their day-to-day activities. Moreover, an overwhelming 88% agreed that the lack of reliable telecommunications has made it difficult to communicate with suppliers and customers, hindering their ability to conduct business smoothly.
The impact of these challenges is substantial. Over half of the respondents (52%) reported a decrease in productivity due to poor telecommunications infrastructure. Additionally, 12% stated that it has limited their ability to expand into new markets, further impeding business growth. Members
experienced various issues, including poor internet connectivity, limited phone coverage, and slowed internet speeds, affecting 60 to 80% of surveyed businesses.
These challenges have led to tangible consequences. Decreased productivity, loss of income, and customer dissatisfaction were commonly cited outcomes of inadequate telecommunications infrastructure. Our members have taken proactive steps to mitigate these challenges, with 38% moving to different service providers, 19% adding backup services such as satellite to their networks, and 19% reducing their reliance on internet services. Others have explored alternative solutions, including microwave point-to-point connections, mobile phone boosters, and transitioning to low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology with varying degrees of success.
It is worth noting that addressing these issues comes with significant costs. The expenses incurred to improve telecommunications services ranged from $1,000 to $100,000, depending on the solution employed. Businesses have invested in various strategies to overcome mobile coverage issues, such as installing boosters and physically relocating to higher locations on their property to gain signal.
Despite the challenges faced, it is important to acknowledge the progress made through government funding initiatives. The Mobile Black Spot Programs, Digital Farm Grants Programs, and Regional Connectivity Programs have played a crucial role in improving connectivity in the areas they have been deployed. These programs have provided funding for the development of telecommunications infrastructure in underserved and remote regions, enhancing connectivity and bridging the digital divide.
The Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce & Industry recognises the positive impact of these programs and acknowledges the efforts made by the government in addressing the telecommunications challenges in regional areas. However, our survey findings indicate that there is still work to be done, particularly in our region.
Our members strongly believe that collaboration between government, telecommunications companies, and local businesses is essential to identify and address problem areas systematically. A measured approach is crucial to improve services in regional WA. The proposed collaborative efforts could include building more cell and fixed wireless towers, installing fiber-to-the-
business, increasing market competition, and incentivising telecommunications carriers to invest in regional areas. In our survey, 69% of businesses expressed their belief in the effectiveness of this collaborative approach.
In conclusion, the Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce & Industry urges the House Communications and Arts Committee and the government to recognise the urgency of improving telecommunications infrastructure in regional WA. Our members have voiced their concerns and shared their experiences, highlighting the need for immediate action. By fostering collaboration and implementing a combination of solutions, we can ensure that businesses in our region have access to reliable and efficient telecommunications services, enabling them to thrive and contribute to regional economic growth.
Thank you
Considerations of some of the indicators for productivity
Agriculture is restricted because the lack of delivery of technology
Drones flying above avocado farms to map what trees need picking for that day
Driverless Tractors – automation need tech / communication
Water point monitors – automatically feeding your mobile phone
Dairy Farmer – consistent technology
Bushfires – communications
