National Relay Service (NRS) users are being blocked from making calls with internet relay because their ISPs are treated as ‘foreign’. Others are waiting 15-30 minutes to be connected.
The deterioration in the NRS service in recent weeks is truly shocking.
There is a serious concern for the safety of deaf people if emergency calls need to be made.
On 30 November, Deafness Forum requested an emergency intervention by the Government: we explained that lives were potentially at risk. In addition to everyday dangers, disastrous bushfires were sweeping eastern states. The NRS is a lifeline for people in danger.
Minister Fletcher published a letter blaming the troubles besieging the NRS on the company that until recently had the contract to deliver it (the NRS contract has since been awarded to an American outfit).