The Telecommunications in New Developments (TIND) policy is a federal document that provides developers with guidance on infrastructure requirements for new residential estates. It also informs steps to be taken by states and territories to strengthen their planning regulations.
The Federal Government recently made significant amendments to the policy. For the first time, mobile telecommunications connectivity has been identified as an essential service, especially in new residential developments exceeding 50 allotments. These changes are one of the first steps in the Australian Government’s plan to improve mobile connectivity in new developments and growth areas.
The government now expects developers to consider mobile connectivity as part of the overall development application process, with a similar level of importance as other utilities such as water, electricity and sewage.
But what does this mean for developers?
And how can Indara help you navigate these new requirements while accelerating a digitised future for our communities?
Understanding Your TIND Obligations as a Developer
Section 4.5 of the new TIND Policy, effective from 17 February 2024, outlines the following government expectations for developers regarding mobile connectivity:
Consider mobile connectivity as an essential utility in development application process
Just as Important as Water, Electricity & Sewage
Consider mobile connectivity as part of the overall development application process, with a similar level of importance as other utilities such as water, electricity and sewage.
Engage with a Mobile Network Operator (MNO) and/or Mobile Network Infrastructure Provider (MNIP) to ensure mobile coverage in ‘urban design’ or ‘master plan’ phase
Engage Early
Engage with an MNO (i.e. Optus, Telstra & TPG) and/or MNIP (i.e. Indara) as early as possible to ensure mobile coverage is in place prior to the selling or leasing of a building unit. Whilst the terminology and/or process for the design of developments varies across jurisdictional planning frameworks, ideally engagement would occur at the ‘urban design’ or ‘master plan’ phase.
Seek advice from MNOs/MNIPs to identify or set aside one or more telco sites, or spaces
Reserve Site(s)
Identify or set aside one or more sites, or spaces, that are appropriate for mobile telco infrastructure such as a pole or tower to be built upon. Depending on the individual circumstances of the development, more than one wireless telco facility may be required to service a development. Generally, sites that are elevated and are closely located to the area intended to be served are preferred. MNOs and/or MNIPs may also consider installing telco facilities on existing or proposed infrastructure, such as poles, or on building rooftops. MNOs and MNIPs are best placed to provide such positional and technical advice, which is why early as possible engagement is encouraged.
Make all reasonable
efforts to reach 'Fair Terms' in agreements with MNOs/MNIPs
efforts to reach 'Fair Terms' in agreements with MNOs/MNIPs
Access to land for telco deployment
Make all reasonable efforts to reach ‘fair terms’ in agreements with MNOs/MNIPs for access to land for the deployment of telecommunications facilities.
How Indara Can Ensure You Meet Your Obligations – and More
At Indara, we’re here to help developers like you stay ahead of these policy changes and seamlessly fulfill your obligations under the new TIND guidelines. Here’s why Indara is the ideal partner for developers:
Extensive experience & knowledge to assist at every stage—from planning to deployment
Consider Mobile Connectivity from the Get-Go
As a leading Mobile Network Infrastructure Provider (MNIP), we’re equipped to assist you at every stage—from initial planning to the final deployment of digital infrastructure.
Engaging with us early in your development process can help determine the best pathway and solution to ensure appropriate mobile coverage is in place, meeting both regulatory requirements and customer expectations.
Seamless process with comprehensive offerings
Plan Easily
We understand that telecommunications can be a complex field, but Indara can help property developers reduce risks & deliver superior outcomes. We offer a comprehensive range of products and services that cover the entire lifespan of digital infrastructure.
From site acquisition and design to ongoing management and operations, Indara ensures a seamless experience from start to finish.
With over 4,700 sites, including towers, rooftops and HUB’s multi-function poles in our expanding portfolio, our infrastructure is at the heart of digital connectivity across Australia.
Expertise in precise coverage analysis, optimised site selection and regulatory consent requirements for any development
Knowledge & Understanding
Indara has vast expertise & comprehensive understanding of the telco landscape and can provide developers with precise coverage analysis for any development (TIND or otherwise). We are also experts in site selection & regulatory requirements and can navigate the complex process required to deliver new infrastructure.
This ensures your project is equipped with the necessary telco infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of modern living. This proactive approach allows you to plan effectively, provide certainty to future residents, and avoid any compliance issues down the road.
Long-standing strong Relationships with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and landlords
Established Industry Reputation
Our extensive 23+ years’ experience and long-standing relationships with MNOs mean we know what it takes to build and maintain robust mobile networks, maximising the coverage.
Being involved throughout the entire lifespan of an asset ensures we build a strong relationship with our landlords. By working with us, you benefit from our established industry reputation, technical expertise, and commitment to operational excellence. Our approach ensures a hassle-free experience for developers looking to meet their TIND obligations.
Ready to ensure seamless connectivity for your next development?
Our team of experts is ready to support you every step of the way. Join us at Indara, where we’re accelerating a digitised future for our communities – one development at a time.
Get Started Today!
To learn more about how we can help you comply with the new TIND policy, fill out the inquiry form below or email our Property Development Consultant nick.meadows@indara.com. We will be in touch within one business day to discuss your specific needs and guide you through the next steps.
