Pete replied:

Vodaphone 100% coverage of australia

Greg Harewood replied:

Vodaphone does have 100% coverage but only with regard to their satellite service - ie you need a Satellite Phone. These are excellent and will work anywhere (except inside) but a little expensive, not only to purchace ($1000+) but also to run (ours is $75 month + some free calls). All carriers (telstra, optus, vodaphone)have coverage maps showing the areas of service for their respectice Digital and CDMA phones(some are a bit optimistic)so check these out. None have Australia wide coverage. Have you considered a HF radio and membership to the A4WDRN (http://4wdclubs.sofcom.com/au/an4wdrn)Regards Greg

Paul Mery replied:

Unless you want to go satelite, I suggest just get digital and telstra, they have coverage at most towns around Australia (check maps). For email connect to Telstra wireless and use your laptop, only in towns of course. It is slow but if your keep emails to text it is a great way to stay in touch with friends/family etc. Telstra do not charge for the supply of this service, they make their money through telephone call charges, so email off peak....