03-08-2025
Suspected copper thieves cut cable causing Telstra outage in Mount Isa
A Telstra outage is affecting outback Queensland, with a spokesperson saying they believe copper thieves have cut a fibre-optic cable.
In a statement, Telstra regional manager Rachel Cliffe said some mobile and enterprise services in Mount Isa had been disconnected.
The number of people affected is unknown.
"The impact of copper theft on customers can be significant, and despite our best efforts to repair and restore services quickly, businesses, individuals and critical community services can be disconnected for hours or days," Ms Cliffe said.
"Repairs from copper theft also require us to divert work crews to restore services, delaying us from resolving other customer service issues."
Telstra technicians are working to restore the outage.
Ms Cliffe urged anyone who has seen suspicious activity near a Mount Isa Telstra facility to report it to police.
"Telstra has committed to a dedicated copper theft prevention team which works closely with all police agencies across Australia to catch and prosecute offenders," she said.
Police have been contacted for comment.
Copper theft can result in criminal charges such as burglary and stealing, with penalties for offenders including fines and imprisonment.
