Home Phones Still Essential for Low Income Earners

Almost seventy five percent of people on a low income still consider their home telephone their most important service with many relying on it for job hunting and social support, according to a survey by telecommunications giant, Telstra.

The survey report was revealed by Telstra at the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) national conference in Canberra.

Telstra Group Managing Director, David Quilty, says the research, undertaken for the Low Income Measures Assessment Committee (LIMAC), confirms that the Global Financial Crisis has had a significant impact on Australians on a low income.

Chris Dodds, LIMAC Chairman and ACOSS representative on the Committee, says the research is timely given the significant challenges to the economy and to people’s financial circumstances in the last 12 to 18 months.

Dodds says staying in touch goes to the very core of people’s existence.

Irrespective of income or financial position, he says people should be able to stay in touch with family, friends and community.

He says the Telstra Access for Everyone programs, which assist over one million low income customers per month, are very effective in supporting disadvantaged Australians during this time.

Telstra engaged an independent research agency to undertake interviews with over 700 low income stakeholders (Telstra Bill Assistance Certificates recipients and participating community agencies) to determine how effective its package of products and services are assisting people on a low income or in financial hardship to stay connected.