Updated | Kareela residents concerned about 'rushed' installation of 5G cells says candidate

The concerns were aired by Labor candidate for Miranda, Simon Earle (story below).

A Telstra spokeswoman said: "Telstra 5G coverage, and the faster speeds and higher capacity that it delivers, has been available in Kareela for some time".

"A small cell is now planned for Boondah Place to provide better depth of coverage and capacity in the area, with construction expected to be complete early next year," she said.

"We welcome community feedback and notified nearby residents and businesses about our plans. We reviewed all matters that were raised in submissions by locals as part of this process.

"We take our responsibilities regarding the health and safety of our customers and the community very seriously. We also acknowledge that some people are genuinely concerned about the possible health effects from electromagnetic energy (EME) and we're committed to addressing those concerns responsibly.

"We rely on scientific advice, not only from our own local experts, but also from international researchers at places such as the World Health Organisation. 5G is similar to both 4G and 3G when it comes to EME levels and both these technologies have been in operation across Australia for many years."

Earlier

Residents in a quiet Kareela cul-de-sac have major concerns about the "rushed" installation of two 5G Cells by Telstra, says Labor candidate for Miranda, Simon Earle.

Mr Earle said residents of Boondah Place told him they were previously advised by Telstra the cells would be installed in February 2023.

"But Telstra contractors have now turned up in the street telling residents that they'll have 5G cells installed on Friday 16 December." Mr Earle said.

"You have to ask why the sudden rush? Why worry affected families now when their focus is on Christmas?

"A third of the affected households in Boondah Place haven't even been notified of the Telstra proposal to begin with, so why is this mega-corporation bringing it forward?

"Residents of Boondah Place are concerned about the possible health impacts of the facility and are asking why it has to be so close to their homes and a nearby childcare centre.

"But all are appalled at the lack of community consultation by the telco.

"The lack of consultation and transparency is simply outrageous."

Mr Earle said residents were frustrated with the process, with some arguing that Telstra may be breach of the Telecommunications Code.

"Residents who have been in contact with me just want to have their say and to have their concerns addressed.

A response is being sought from Telstra.

An online Telstra information brochure says, small cells are a low powered radio transmitters for mobile phone services.

"Their small size makes them far more discreet," the telco says.

"Telstra uses small cells to improve coverage, connectivity and customer mobile experience without the need to build as many big mobile towers.

"We are using mobile phones more than ever before and now devices such as smart watches, tablets and computers are also connecting to the mobile network. There is 60 times more traffic on the Telstra network today than there was 10 years ago.

"Small cells are a way that we can cater for that demand, reduce congestion and improve connectivity without having to build more towers."