A new collaboration between Telstra and SpaceX’s Starlink will significantly impact how people living in rural and regional Australia can communicate – bringing service to parts of the country that have never had it before.

The best part is that most Aussies, won’t need to change anything to get access to this service – but that might not be the case for everyone.

What does the partnership between Telstra and Starlink actually mean for Australians living in rural or regional areas?

Essentially, it will mean they will have satellite access directly to their mobile phones in places they’ve never had before.

Thanks to the satellite technology, coverage will be available to the more than 60% of Australia’s land mass that previously hasn’t been able to access it.

Initially, Aussies will be able to send text messages on their phones no matter where they are in the country – over time that will develop to voice calls or even have video streaming capabilities.

What do Aussies have to do to get this satellite access?

The great news is that many Aussies won’t have to do anything to get access to the satellite services – it will use technology that already exists in smartphones to work. However, as this is a partnership with Telstra, access will only be for those who have a Telstra service already.

While Telstra hasn’t confirmed the exact timing of when this service will be available, they have stated it’s something they are working on over the coming months.

How can Aussies make sure their phone, or current service, is compatible?

Any smartphone with Telstra service will have satellite access, when it becomes available. Unfortunately, this does mean that anyone without service through Telstra will not be able to access the satellite service.

For information on pricing, and what Aussies should do if they want to switch, Canstar utilities expert Tara Donnelly is available for more information.