The database,known as the IPND,is used to send Emergency Alert SMS to warn Australians of disasters such as flood and bushfires,and by triple-zero to provide location information to the police,ambulance and fire brigade in an emergency.
ACMA member Samantha Yorke said that the watchdog moved to investigate Optus after a compliance audit found the telco had failed to upload data via its outsourced supplier,Prvidr. The issue related to customers on Optus’ Coles Mobile and Catch Connect brands.
Australia’s triple-zero system is under scrutiny amid multiple failures and thedeath of a Melbourne man last week during a “technical incident” that affected triple-zero services for more than an hour.
“When emergency services are hindered there can be very serious consequences for the safety of Australians,” Yorke said.
“While we are not aware of anyone being directly harmed due to the non-compliance in this case,it’s alarming that Optus placed so many customers in this position for so long.
“Optus cannot outsource its obligations,even if part of the process is being undertaken by a third party.