The desert outback is now the digital outback. The black spot that once stretched across the majority of Australia is no longer, thanks to Starlink, Elon Musk’s internet company that employs a vast fleet of low-Earth orbit satellites. It means fast, stable internet that’s available anywhere as long as you can supply some power.
The New Way to Explore Australia
Starlink is transforming the way Australians and international visitors experience the country. The rise of work-from-home opportunities is fuelling an increase in mobile travel setups, with people kitting out vans, caravans, and motorhomes to roam Australia’s far reaches.
Tourism operators, too, are noticing the impact. “We’re seeing more people who are staying for longer stretches, working during the day, and exploring in their downtime,” explains Greg Palmer, who runs a remote eco-lodge in Western Australia. “They can now work here Monday to Friday and head off on weekends to explore some of the world’s most beautiful, untouched landscapes.”
An Economic Boost for Regional Communities
The influx of remote workers and travellers is proving a boon for regional economies, often in need of more consistent visitor traffic. The potential to stay and work in a location can lead to extended stays and more expenditure in local communities. From cafes and accommodation providers to grocery stores and tour operators, many are seeing a boost in business that can partly be attributed to Starlink.
At What Cost
While Starlink’s satellite internet has created unprecedented access, the service comes at a cost. Hardware fees are around AUD $924 and monthly subscriptions around AUD $139, which means it may not be viable for everyone. Additionally, ongoing questions remain around bandwidth demands as more users sign on.
Shaping the Future of Rural Australia
As we continue to adapt to new ways of living and working, the potential for a true work-from-anywhere culture is on the horizon. This shift promises not only a lifestyle transformation for remote workers but also the potential to rebalance population distribution and reduce congestion in major cities, creating a ripple effect across Australia.
