We know that people who have unmonitored medical alarms, and their families, need peace of mind when they are moving over to the nbn™ broadband access network. People have the right to feel safe and we want to help support them as they make this transition.

An unmonitored medical alarm is a device designed to help those who might require urgent medical assistance while they are alone, and is made up of two parts.

One part is worn – by the person who might require medical assistance – within easy reach (for example, as a necklace or a bracelet). This part generally has a button on it that, when pressed, sends a signal to the second part of the device – the base. The base then connects to or calls a series of pre-programmed contacts, which may include 000, a next-door neighbour or a family member. (An ‘unmonitored’ alarm is not monitored by a professional alarm monitoring company.)

These alarms act as an important safety net for those who potentially may have an accident, a health complication, or any other emergency medical condition while they are alone. For example, an elderly person who has had a fall or a heart attack could activate the alarm to alert those who can promptly come to their aid.

As part of a nationwide upgrade of Australian telecommunications, services over the nbn™ access network are scheduled to progressively replace most existing landline phone and internet services, and some devices, including unmonitored medical alarms, may not be compatible with these new services over the nbn™ access network at all times.

To support Australians with unmonitored medical alarms in moving their household to the nbn™ access network^, eligible users of unmonitored medical alarms now have the opportunity to upgrade to an eligible new unmonitored medical alarm through a participating device supplier at a reduced price. These eligible new unmonitored medical alarms can connect using a mobile network and and do not rely solely on a fixed line connection.

Easing the migration for those in need

Under the Unmonitored Medical Alarm Upgrade Offer, participating alarm suppliers can provide eligible users with an upgraded medical alarm at a discounted price of up to 80 per cent* off the normal price, to a maximum of $300 off.

Brad Whitcomb, Chief Customer Officer – Residential at NBN Co says, “We understand people who have unmonitored medical alarms are some of the most vulnerable members of our community – the new Unmonitored Medical Alarm Upgrade Offer will help provide additional support in their household’s transition to the nbn™ access network.

“We're encouraging all users of unmonitored medical alarms, or family or friends of those with an alarm, to register their details on our Medical Alarm Register so they can be provided assistance with their household’s migration to the nbn™ access network, and also understand if they are eligible for up to an 80 per cent discount on upgrading a new alarm.”

Nan Bosler, President of the ‎Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association adds, “Many older Australians are not aware the rollout of the nbn™ access network will impact their unmonitored medical alarms. There are easy step-by-step directions on the NBN Co website to help enable you to register for additional support in order to ensure a smooth migration to the network.”

How to get the offer

You can sign up to the Medical Alarm Register online or by calling 1800 227 300 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

To check if you or your loved ones are eligible for the Unmonitored Medical Alarm Upgrade Offer, or for more information, visit Alarm Upgrade.

Communication will also be mailed directly to those already on our Medical Alarm Register and distributed in other channels including medical alarm support services, thousands of GP waiting areas and through selected aged care community groups.

* The discount is 80 per cent off the alarm supplier’s normal retail price, up to a maximum discount of $300. Full eligibility criteria are published at nbn.com.au/alarmupgrade

^The rollout of the nbn™ access network will involve new technologies, and some existing devices (including many medical alarms, autodiallers and emergency call buttons) may not be compatible with these at all times. You should contact your device provider to find out if your alarm or other device will work when connected to the nbn™ access network and what alternative solutions are available. For more information, visit nbn.com.au/compatibility.