The Optus network outage on September 18, which led to the failure of hundreds of Triple Zero calls and tragically resulted in two deaths, has raised serious concerns about our reliance on mobile networks for emergency communications.

In a detailed independent report released by Optus yesterday, the incident was scrutinized, prompting a call for significant changes in how network upgrades are managed and communicated within the company. More importantly, the report highlights a critical vulnerability in our modern mobile-dependent communication systems, especially concerning the Triple Zero emergency line.

While the technical aspects of the outage will be thoroughly assessed, and accountability within Optus is likely to be addressed, the focus should shift toward what Australians can learn from this incident. Educating the public on these lessons is paramount to preventing future mishaps.

One problematic aspect is that removing certain coding could make phones unable to reach emergency numbers in foreign countries, posing a risk for travelers entering Australia with devices programmed to use 3G for emergency services.

The Schott report advises both the industry and the Government to explore ways to enable a data-based Triple Zero system. This would eliminate dependence on outdated and discontinued mobile network technologies.

Alarmingly, the report also suggests that the public should be encouraged to test their devices to ensure they can successfully make a Triple Zero call, highlighting a need for increased public awareness and preparedness.

It is vital that the public never call Triple Zero unless it is an emergency; in fact, it’s an offence to do so.

What is needed though is a system by which people can have faith that their phone will work in the unique circumstances of a network failure, something you can’t test by simply making a call.

Industry testing of devices must continue; a phone or SMS number should be set up for people to contact to validate their device, and the regulators and Government must act fast to bring our Triple Zero emergency call network up to a modern global standard.

While not noted in the Schott report, this could and should include factors such as calls via satellite, SMS, and messaging connectivity to Triple Zero and a modern data-enabled call system; it’s the least we should expect from the most important phone number in Australia.