From today, standardised mobile coverage maps are mandatory. Telstra's map shrinks by ~1 million sq km — but no towers were switched off. Here's what it actually means for comparing mobile plans.
From today, every Australian mobile network operator must publish standardised coverage maps under new ACMA rules. The headline: Telstra's coverage map shrinks by roughly 1 million square kilometres. But no towers were switched off — only what gets shown on the map has changed.
| Category | What it means |
|---|---|
| Good | Reliable indoor and outdoor coverage for voice and data |
| Moderate | Reliable outdoor coverage; indoor may be variable |
| Basic | Outdoor coverage only; may be inconsistent |
| No coverage | Signal strength is below -115dBm — limited, inconsistent, or non-existent mobile network service |
The new rules require mobile operators to update their maps at least every three months.
Telstra's coverage map previously showed its network area down to -122 dBm — a signal strength far weaker than the new -115 dBm minimum threshold.
During the consultation period for this rule change, Telstra argued that 1.5 million customers use sub-115 dBm coverage monthly. Group Executive Shailin Sehgal warned of "customer confusion" when the official coverage map shows 'no coverage' in areas where the mobile service still works.
ACMA acknowledged this but noted that service in these areas is "limited, inconsistent, or non-existent". The intent: consumers shouldn't be told they have coverage if the signal can't reliably support a call.
Optus and Vodafone already used thresholds closer to -115dBm, so their maps changed far less. A TPG Telecom spokesperson called the rules a "win for consumers": coverage should mean your phone actually works, not that it might show a bar of signal.
The practical effect: the perceived gap between Telstra and competitors has narrowed significantly on coverage maps, even though network infrastructure hasn't changed.
For the first time, consumers will have access to like-for-like information about mobile coverage in locations across Australia.
Alongside coverage maps, telcos must now maintain public registers of resolved major and significant outages, including location, cause, duration, and services affected. For the first time, consumers can check a provider's outage track record before signing up.
The standardised maps make like-for-like comparison of coverage area possible for the first time. ACMA Chair Nerida O'Loughlin said: "For the first time, consumers will have access to like-for-like information about mobile coverage in locations across Australia."
Bill Hero's mobile coverage pages show which networks have ACMA-licensed infrastructure near your suburb. With the new standardised maps, you can cross-reference tower data against comparable carrier maps to make an informed choice.
Telstra has long advertised 99.7% population coverage. At this stage, Telstra says it is "working through the standard" and cannot confirm it can retain that claim under the new rules. Watch this space.
Sources: ACMA MR 20/2026 (30 June 2026), WhistleOut, Telstra Exchange, The Australian.
🔑Key Takeaways • Smart meters can save households 20-40% on electricity — but only if you're on the right
Savings as a Service is the newsletter from Bill Hero. Subscribe now and get your energy savings tips and information delivered fresh to your inbox every month.
