The Satellite Phone Subsidy Scheme (the Scheme) is an Australian Government initiative to make mobile communications more accessible and affordable for people living or working in areas beyond 3G or GSM terrestrial mobile coverage—including aviation and maritime users.

The Scheme is administered by the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy (the Department).

The Australian Government recognises that access to mobile communications is increasingly important in providing social and economic benefits. The Scheme is a significant part of an ongoing commitment to improving the accessibility of mobile services in regional, rural and remote areas of Australia.

If you are approved for a subsidy, you will be able to buy a satellite mobile phone from a registered dealer can receive up to 85 percent of the retail price of a satellitephone, to a maximum of $1000 (including GST).

  • Eligible consumers include individuals, small businesses, community groups, not-for-profit organisations, Indigenous corporations, emergency service organisations, health organisations and educational institutions.
  • Eligible applicants must spend 180 days over a two year period outside of terrestrial mobile phone coverage.
  • The application must be approved before the phone is purchased. Note: The subsidy is paid to dealers, who deduct it from the retail price of the phone to consumers.

Purchasers must use the form below, right click to save.
PDF fileGuidelines and application form (PDF, 92 KB)