Telstra CEO 'Deeply Sorry' for Nationwide Outage, Cites Software Glitch
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
News
Sources not specified
Under investigation
- Telstra CEO Vicki Brady issued a public apology for the nationwide network outage that disrupted essential services, including Triple Zero calls.
- Brady stated the outage was caused by a software glitch and is now under control, but investigations into its cause and prevention are ongoing.
- The company faces potential compensation claims, and Brady acknowledged the significant impact on customers and the broader community.
Telstra chief executive Vicki Brady has offered a "deeply sorry" apology to the company's customers following a nationwide network outage that crippled essential services across Australia. The outage, which affected Triple Zero emergency calls, train networks, and EFTPOS payments, has left the telecommunications giant facing potential compensation claims totaling hundreds of millions of dollars.
We have let our customers and Australians down and for that I am deeply sorry.
In her first public statement since the crisis began, Brady confirmed that the widespread disruption was caused by a software glitch. While the issue is now resolved and services are under control, investigations are continuing to determine the exact cause and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. Brady, who was overseas when the outage began, returned promptly to address the situation.
I understand how much Australians rely on us to keep in touch, to work and stay safe.
"We have let our customers and Australians down and for that I am deeply sorry," Brady stated, acknowledging the critical reliance Australians place on Telstra's services for communication, work, and safety. She recognized the broader community impact, extending beyond individual users to disruptions in payments and transportation.
It's extremely frustrating and disruptive when services aren't available, and I am sorry for the impact that this has had on so many people.
Brady emphasized the company's serious approach to the inability of people to reach Triple Zero, stating it is Telstra's responsibility to ensure all emergency calls are answered and transferred immediately. "You have my commitment on that," she assured, promising a thorough investigation and necessary actions to prevent recurrence. Communications Minister Anika Wells and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese were also updated on the situation.
We understand what caused the issue, and we will complete our investigation into the actions needed to prevent it from happening again.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
More Stories
From Our Blog
What Gets Lost (and Found) When News Is Translated
The Critical Role of Diaspora Media in Global News
What Travellers Should Know About Countries with Restricted Press
A Digital Nomad's Guide to Following Local News
How the Same Story Looks Different in Different Countries
