Telstra

Telstra is committed to improving telecommunications access across Queensland’s regional, rural, and remote communities. Through its Connected Future 30 strategy, Telstra is investing in modern infrastructure—including 4G and 5G upgrades, satellite-to-mobile services, and intercity fibre rollouts—to replace legacy networks and enhance reliability.

In response to challenges like natural disasters and outdated copper systems, Telstra is expanding coverage and partnering with satellite providers to ensure even the most remote areas stay connected. The company also actively contributes to national policy reform through the Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee, advocating for modernised service obligations and consumer protections.

Locally, Telstra supports community organisations through its Connected Communities program and engages with Queensland-based members of the Telstra Regional Council to guide inclusive, place-based strategies. Accessibility is also a priority, with initiatives ensuring people with disabilities in regional Queensland can fully participate in the digital economy.

Telstra is advancing water management through IoT-enabled solutions and strategic partnerships. Investments like the $3 million support for Farmbot help deliver real-time water monitoring for farmers. Captis is a Telstra-supported IoT device designed for remote data collection, particularly in water management and environmental monitoring.  Using devices like this alongside Digital Twin technology to provide a virtual replica of a physical object, system or process, enables detailed water usage analysis and system modelling, supporting smarter decisions. Collaborations with government and the MDBA aim to improve water data transparency and resource management across the Murray-Darling Basin.

Telstra is reducing emissions and boosting energy efficiency with a goal of 100% renewable energy by 2025 and net-zero emissions by 2050. Initiatives include energy-efficient upgrades, battery storage investments, and waste reduction. Telstra is also piloting standalone power systems (SAPs) using solar and hydrogen fuel cell technology to power mobile towers during outages, supporting a cleaner, more resilient energy future.

Telstra takes a comprehensive, multi-layered approach to minimising risk for customers, combining robust internal frameworks, proactive infrastructure investment, and customer-focused innovation.

Telstra uses advanced technologies to detect and respond to risks in real time using AI-powered fraud detection models assess customer behaviour and transaction data to prevent account takeovers and suspicious activity. Telstra also use dynamic risk scoring and anomaly detection help respond quickly to emerging threats across 

To ensure service continuity during disruptions, Telstra invests in:

• Backup power systems, including batteries, generators, and solar/hydrogen solutions
• Satellite connectivity and automated failover systems like the Telstra Smart Modem
• Disaster readiness programs, including portable infrastructure (e.g. Cell on Wheels) and upgraded public phones in disaster-prone areas 

Telstra supports customers by providing clear communication during outages and emergencies and educating customers on disaster preparedness and digital safety.

Telstra’s sustainability strategy includes a strong focus on protecting biodiversity and managing natural assets. The company adheres to environmental standards covering biosecurity, waste, waterways, and soil management, and sees technology as key to improving outcomes—especially in agriculture.

Telstra supports national initiatives like Catalysing Australia’s Biosecurity, helping detect and manage threats such as emergency animal diseases and invasive pests. It also partners with the Reef Trust and Great Barrier Reef Foundation on innovative reef monitoring projects using drones, AI, and e-DNA.

These actions highlight Telstra’s commitment to environmental resilience and biosecurity through innovation.