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LEO satellite research launched at PITA conference – Read more
The Cable Connectivity and Resilience Centre (CCRC) launched its research report, Low Earth orbit satellites in the Pacific: Opportunities, risks, and governance for resilient connectivity, at the 30th Pacific Islands Telecommunications Association (PITA) AGM, Business Forum and Expo. Held in Rarotonga, Cook Islands, from the 13 – 17 April 2026, PITA is a key regional platform for Pacific connectivity discussions, bringing together governments, regulators, industry, development partners and more. The Australian Government is pleased to be a member of PITA and attend the AGM each year, supporting regional knowledge sharing and strengthening links between governments and industry. CCRC’s research launched at the conference explores how LEO satellites can be most effectively integrated alongside submarine fibre cables. Key findings of the report are that subsea telecommunications cables remain the backbone of high-capacity connectivity across the Pacific, providing the lowest total cost of ownership over the long-term to meet growing demand, with LEO satellite systems a very important complementary layer - extending coverage, strengthening redundancy and improving resilience, particularly for remote areas and outer island communities, and during disasters or connectivity outages. CCRC was pleased to collaborate with the Pacific Telecommunications Council (PTC), Network Strategies, Hibbard Consulting and McCann Consulting International to deliver a workshop for regulators and industry representatives. CCRC shared recent research findings, while Network Strategies presented a case study from Tonga examining the impact of LEO satellite services on local operators and outlining recommended regulatory measures to strengthen domestic competitiveness. These insights supported a robust discussion on the governance and management of LEO satellite systems in the Pacific. Participants underscored the need for coordinated policy and regulatory approaches to support emerging hybrid connectivity models as technologies continue to evolve. We thank PTC and PITA for their collaboration and partnership in delivering this workshop.Through its participation at PITA, the CCRC welcomed the opportunity to connect with key regional partners and work together to strengthen connectivity and resilience in Pacific islands countries. Click here for the full report.
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Talanoa in Tonga to safeguard subsea cable connectivity – Read more
The Cable Connectivity and Resilience Centre (CCRC) travelled to Tonga in February 2026 to participate in a Talanoa supporting the development of a regulatory framework to safeguard Tonga’s subsea telecommunications cables and ensure reliable connectivity for communities, businesses, and government.The Talanoa was held in partnership with the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications, and brought together representatives from across the Tongan Government, cable operators, and ocean management agencies.Discussions focused on local perspectives on risks to Tonga’s subsea cable infrastructure and explored practical and legislative measures to establish cable protection zones and supporting regulations. Participants also considered how such a framework could align with Tonga’s broader ocean management priorities while reflecting international best practice.Insights from the Talanoa will inform the development of policy, legislative, and regulatory arrangements for cable protection, in collaboration with the relevant government agencies and community groups.The CCRC looks forward to continuing its partnership with Tonga to advance these priorities and support resilient digital connectivity across the Pacific.
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