The access disparity between rural and metropolitan areas was discussed at the forum in Tamworth, which will inform recommendations for the federal government.

Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said he listened to the impact the issues are having on people’s lives.

“If we are going expand the economy and attract people to the country, we need a strong telecommunications capacity,” he said.

“The review is built on work we’ve already done, with 37 new and improved mobile phone towers brought out to certain specific areas of concern such as the Horton Valley which is something I’m fighting for at the moment – to get better mobile coverage for them.”

Seftons managing director Robbie Sefton is on the committee, and said farmers need better coverage to conduct business.

“It’s not just so they can get on the phone and talk to each other, it’s so they can do grain trading or sell their livestock online – it’s running their business,” she said.

“It’s up to the government to listen to our recommendations and look at what’s achievable.

“It needs ongoing resources, it’s about equity of service we need to make sure rural and regional Australians are equipped to do businesses as well as the cities.”

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The review will deliver the recommendations to the federal government in September.

Members of the public can make submissions at communications.gov.au.

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