Overview
- A software fault in a network time‑synchronisation device triggered widespread voice and data outages that began on July 9 and were largely resolved after Telstra implemented a software fix that restored services.
- The outage left millions without mobile coverage, caused more than 600 failed Triple 0 calls that prompted police welfare checks, and disrupted EFTPOS payments, some train services and a small number of EV chargers.
- Telstra has apologised, launched a full internal investigation, published complaint forms and invited residential and business customers to apply for compensation with businesses required to provide evidence of direct financial loss.
- The Australian Communications and Media Authority has opened a probe, a Senate inquiry will examine investment and governance, and law firms are exploring class actions while potential civil penalties can reach A$30 million per breach.
- The episode has renewed scrutiny of telco maintenance and investment decisions, raised calls for simpler automatic compensation after major outages, and left small workers and businesses facing practical hurdles proving lost income.