NSW Telco Authority prices up future ‘tech diversity’

The NSW Telco Authority (NTA) is seeking partners to help it price up the future of connectivity in the most rural parts of the state.

The state government body has launched an expression of interest (EOI) seeking a price guide for emerging satellite connectivity products and services.

This is to help NTA “provide ubiquitous connectivity” to manage communications for emergency services and government agencies, especially in the event of major incidents or natural disasters.

Specifically, the NTA is looking to “provide connectivity remotely where the community and/or government agencies needs are on the pause” or “on the move”.

It is also looking to provide a satellite service with a “highly secure transmission of data”, including encryption protocols and authentication. In addition, connectivity must allow real-time data transmission, including transactional data and high-definition video streaming.

NTA added that it seeks to “facilitate the capture and transportation of sensing and telemetry data for internet of things” devices and transport.

“Considering the dynamic nature of satellite services and the evolving technology and user requirements, an ideal system will assess the feasibility and benefits of introducing enterprise plans alongside subscription-based offerings,” NTA said in the EOI.

“New solutions will involve understanding the distinctive demands and preferences of enterprise clients.”

Following the EOI, NTA intends to provide a summary of services and prices to agencies and other buyers for future projects.

Partners and vendors have until 16 April 2024 to respond to the EOI.