The trial program, signed by the New South Wales Government on behalf of all states, territories and the Commonwealth, will provide "a mobile broadband platform for emergency service organisations aimed at improving access to information, providing real-time, automated situational awareness and enabling emerging technologies to be integrated into operational practices."

Historically, we're told that "emergency service organisations have relied on dedicated land and mobile radio networks, to provide communications. While robust, these technologies do not deliver the 21st century communications that are needed to ensure emergency services personnel can continue to keep Australians safe."

TPG Telecom states it has been working closely with the Commonwealth, states, territories, emergency service organisations and delivery partners to develop the superior multi-operator solution for the PSMB network.

“The trial will allow for the exhaustive testing of the multi-operator service delivery model to ensure it can provide the critical communications support needed for frontline staff during emergencies and natural disasters,” said TPG Telecom CEO, Iñaki Berroeta.

“Last year’s bushfires and the recent floods in New South Wales and South East Queensland demonstrate the importance of emergency services personnel having access to real-time information to enable them to make critical decisions in dangerous, fast-moving situations.

“We look forward to the successful delivery of the Public Safety Mobile Broadband trial,” he added.

Head of Oceania, Nokia, Anna Wills said, “Nokia is proud of our innovation and expertise in delivering high quality, secure public safety solutions for emergency services.

"Communications across services are essential to enabling fast, reliable cooperation between our emergency personnel in times of crisis. This trial enables us to bring the best of our world-leading critical network solutions to Australia.”