Federal Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland has announced that, following a $4.8 million overhaul to improve the speed, coverage and reliability of the network, Adelaide’s free Wi-Fi service is now available to the public.

The ADL Free powered by TPG Telecom is a partnership between the Australian Government, the City of Adelaide and internet service provider TPG Telecom to deliver what has been spruiked as the largest, free city-wide Wi-Fi network in Australia.

The new system will be owned and operated by TPG Telecom for the next five years, with the telecommunications company responsible for its maintenance and upkeep.

ADL Free powered by TPG Telecom” is a project jointly funded by the Australian Government and the City of Adelaide as part of the $699 million Adelaide City Deal.

The Adelaide City Deal is a 10-year partnership between the Australian and South Australian governments and the City of Adelaide to grow Adelaide as an innovative and vibrant city.

The updated system uses state-of-the-art technology, with the existing infrastructure replaced with new high-speed fibre optics and 25 per cent more access points added across the city, North Adelaide and Park Lands to improve the connectivity and dependability of the free network.

“The new free Wi-Fi is utilising the best technology in the country to create a network which is far superior to the old system, that could at times be slow and unreliable,” Lord Mayor of Adelaide Jane Lomax-Smith, said.

“A free Wi-Fi service will support tourists and international students, who are returning in increasing numbers following the pandemic but in addition will help those struggling with the cost of living or the homeless.

“This urban infrastructure project will position Adelaide as a centre for investment and be available to businesses to leverage the improved download speeds for reliable payment and electronic banking purposes.”

“We are thrilled to be involved in a community project of this size,” TPG Telecom Group Executive Jonathan Rutherford, added.

“We are delighted to have completed this essential piece of urban infrastructure with the City of Adelaide, allowing its people and visitors to enjoy free, reliable connectivity from every corner of the city.

“The ADL Free powered by TPG Telecom Wi-Fi network is the largest of its kind in Australia and underlines the vital role connectivity plays in bringing people, businesses and entertainment precincts together.