Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsACCAN is urging Parliament to require temporary disaster roaming (TDR), saying the current carrier-led arrangement leaves activation to mobile operators without a clear benchmark or accountability framework. TDR may let customers use another available network during a disaster, but it cannot help where no other usable network exists. The arrangement is reported ready to operate from 1 October 2026; ACCAN’s proposed mandate has not been enacted.
What temporary disaster roaming does
TDR is a network continuity measure, not a phone feature or a guarantee of service. If a customer’s provider is disrupted, TDR can allow the customer to connect to another terrestrial mobile network in the affected area, where that network is available and operators enable the arrangement. It may support calls, text messages and limited data. The Australian Telecommunications Alliance chief executive told ABC that data capacity would be limited, not equivalent to a customer’s usual high-speed service; it might be enough for messaging or checking an emergency information site. ABC News, 1 October 2026.
Roaming cannot create coverage where no functioning host network exists. If an area is served only by the failed provider, or power loss has disabled the other available infrastructure, there may be no network for customers to use. An earlier feasibility finding also identified congestion mitigation as a design issue, rather than a problem solved simply by enabling roaming. ACMA Corporate Plan 2024–29.
What is reported about the current arrangement
ABC reported on 1 October 2026 that the three major carriers were ready to switch on TDR during severe-weather disruption in regional areas. The reported model leaves decisions about whether and when to activate it to the telcos. It applies only outside major cities and where a second network is present. ABC reported no detailed benchmark framework for activation. ABC News.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
ACCAN says the industry factsheet sets further limits. These are ACCAN’s account of that factsheet, not independently verified performance results:
- No more than three disaster areas may operate at once.
- Each area may include up to 15 mobile sites, and areas must be at least 400 km apart.
- Operation typically lasts around 24 hours.
- Metropolitan areas and medical-alert devices are excluded.
- The arrangement may not activate if a power outage brings down a network.
ACCAN argues that leaving activation to operators without benchmarks or accountability makes it difficult to identify delays or cases where the service was not activated. It is calling for mandated TDR at minimum. CEO Carol Bennett said: “Public safety cannot rest on voluntary arrangements that the Telcos can choose to turn on and off.” ACCAN statement, 1 October 2026.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Does TDR change Triple Zero access?
No. ABC distinguishes TDR from the existing mobile “camp on” provision for Triple Zero (000): a mobile user can call 000 through another network if at least one network is available, regardless of the user’s subscribed provider. TDR does not create a new guarantee that emergency calls will work everywhere or replace that provision. ABC News, 1 October 2026.
ABC reports that TDR relies on VoLTE settings used by most modern smartphones. It did not identify a confirmed subsidy for customers who need a phone upgrade. Customers concerned about compatibility should check with their carrier; the reporting does not establish that every handset will connect.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Why ACCAN wants a mandate
ACCAN’s argument is about more than whether roaming is technically possible: it wants enforceable expectations for when operators activate it and how performance is assessed. A mandate could be designed to specify triggers, service standards or reporting, but the sources available do not establish what those requirements would be, who would enforce them, or how activation and costs would be handled. Those are unresolved policy choices, not features of the currently reported arrangement.
ACCAN’s preferred outcome is broader still: permanent domestic mobile roaming, so customers could access another network beyond temporary disaster conditions. Bennett said, “At a minimum, we should see mandated Temporary Disaster Roaming arrangements – at best we should mandate domestic mobile roaming.” ACCAN is asking the Senate to pursue permanent roaming through amendments to the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation Bill when Parliament returns in October. That is an advocacy position, not evidence that Parliament has passed the proposal. ACCAN statement, 1 October 2026.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
| Policy option | Scope | What is established |
|---|---|---|
| Reported industry TDR arrangement | Temporary access during specified disaster disruptions | Carriers decide whether and when to activate; the service depends on another usable network being present. ACCAN attributes area and duration limits to the industry factsheet. |
| Mandated TDR sought by ACCAN | Disaster roaming, with requirements to be determined | ACCAN calls for this at minimum. The sources do not establish a legal trigger, activation deadline, performance standard, enforcement method or reporting system. |
| Permanent domestic roaming sought by ACCAN | Broader access to other domestic networks, beyond temporary disaster response | ACCAN calls it the preferred outcome; it is not established as current policy. |
What the ACCC inquiry does—and does not—mean
Separately, the ACCC began a public inquiry on 5 August 2026 into possible declarations of a domestic roaming service and a radio access network service. It combined the inquiries under section 152AN of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010; the inquiry is being conducted under Part 25 of the Telecommunications Act 1997. The ACCC anticipated an approximately 12-month process, including a discussion paper, at least 28 days for submissions, consideration of submissions, possible further consultation, and draft and final reports. ACCC inquiry notice, 5 August 2026.
This is an inquiry into possible broader services, not the TDR activation process and not an adopted roaming rule. It should not be read as a decision to mandate either disaster or permanent domestic roaming.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
What is technically feasible, and what remains unsettled
ACMA’s 2024–29 corporate plan records that the ACCC’s Regional Mobile Infrastructure Inquiry found temporary emergency roaming technically feasible, while further work was needed to design and develop the capability. It also notes that coordination between government and network operators could help mitigate congestion. That historical finding does not settle today’s operating standards, activation decisions, capacity allocation or implementation design. ACMA Corporate Plan 2024–29.
In practical terms, a mandate would need to address the gap between permission to roam and dependable access during an emergency. The sources do not establish a final activation trigger, minimum service level, deadline, enforcement process, funding or wholesale payment model, or public performance reporting system. Nor do they provide a published real-world TDR success rate. ACCAN’s position is that voluntary discretion is inadequate; the network and power constraints mean that any policy still has to account for where a host network is available and how much capacity it can provide.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
