New mobile coverage maps are coming – what does that mean for you?

15th Apr 2026

If you’ve ever checked a mobile coverage map and wondered if it really reflects what you’ll get day to day, you’re not alone. We hear from people that say it’s hard to compare mobile coverage between telcos and understand what the maps actually mean.

The telco regulator recently announced new rules requiring telcos to publish standardised mobile coverage maps, starting 30 June 2026. The rules should mean you get clearer, consistent and easier to compare information about mobile coverage.

All mobile network operators – as well as the telcos that resell their services – must have these mobile coverage maps.

What will the mobile coverage maps tell you?

Mobile coverage maps must show 4G and 5G coverage availability using the same four categories across Australia:

Good coverage
Moderate coverage
Basic coverage
No coverage

Each category is defined based on the experience you’ll get. For example, an area marked as ‘good coverage’ means you can generally expect reliable voice calls, SMS and data without frequent dropouts. ‘No coverage’ means service is likely to be unreliable or unavailable most of the time.

What will new mobile coverage maps mean for you?

Whether you’re switching telcos, moving house, planning travel or just trying to understand why your phone struggles in certain places, the new maps should help you:

compare coverage across different providers more easily
better understand what level of service to expect where you live, work or travel
make more informed decisions before signing up or changing plans.

It’s important to remember that coverage maps are a guide. The rules set the standard for better information but also make it clear other factors affect your coverage, no matter who your telco is. Things like buildings, weather, landscape and device type can still affect your mobile service.

Mobile coverage maps are based on general network coverage predictions, so there are limitations to the guidance they can provide. For example, mobile coverage maps will only show availability for when you’re using your mobile outside and at ground level.

What if you’re having problems now?

You don’t need to wait for the new rules to get help.

If you’re paying for a mobile service but experiencing ongoing problems, or not getting the information you need, the first step is to talk to your telco.

If they can’t help you or you’re not satisfied with their response, you can come to the TIO for help. We’re free and fair and here to help.

We also publish guidance to help you talk to your telco about faults like poor mobile coverage and understand how the TIO expects telcos to help you.