The tech company’s head of network services pointed out that the Australian private sector is still far behind compared to some of the other countries of the world and that 5G services could have a significant impact in rural areas.
Even though most people in Australia use 5G services in their daily lives, it seems as though the country as a whole still has yet to put the network to good use. At least according to most technology experts, such as Accenture’s Albert Tan.
Speaking to The Australian, Mr Tan pointed out that Australia is “losing the 5G race” compared to other nations across the world from regions such as North America, Europe and Asia, as there are many industries in the country that have yet to seek out the full potential of the power the new network service has to offer.
“This is not as straightforward as just switching 5G on. Truly disruptive 5G innovation can’t come from the private sector if the structure, infrastructure and policies aren’t in place,” said Mr Tan.
“We need government collaboration and co-ordination to create standards and enforce shared interests to harness the technology and to incentivise all stakeholders to invest in a move to 5G and the processes it enables.”
Mr Tan went on to discuss the matter of miscommunication between the private sector and the government in regards to 5G implementation and proper use, which leads to the loss of many investment opportunities that could help make life easier for all Australians.
“No one company, stakeholder, or government can use 5G in isolation and reap benefits like these, which is why many of the countries leading in the implementation of 5G technologies also use Public-Private Partnerships to build ecosystems and infrastructure that can generate exponential gains for businesses and communities,” he stressed.
But the one area that 5G could really be put to good use, according to the Accenture head of network, is in helping people who are living in remote communities, as it could provide them with a highly necessary tool to accommodate all their daily needs. However, as he points out, with the current level of connectivity, such a thing can prove difficult.
“Nowhere will 5G technology be more impactful than rural areas. There, the technology will transform healthcare, education, transportation, and logistics and open new opportunities for agriculture and manufacturing. One of the most significant transformations of the last two years has been jobs’ decentralisation, with remote work normalised. But a crucial element of this transition is connectivity. Without it, the current trend won’t be sustainable,” he said.
“With shared networks we can really start closing the digital divide between metro, regional and rural Australia.”
