Registrations for nbn's Medical Alarm Register set to close

The register - which supports about 180,000 medically vulnerable and older Australians by helping them to migrate their medical alarms, phone and internet services to the nbn network - will close to new registrants on June 30. It has been in operation for almost nine years.

The register helps nbn customers check their medical alarm is working correctly when migrating to the network.

The nbn's executive health manager Robert Hardie said customers will still be assisted to make the transition after June 30, provided they register prior to the cut-off date.

"Switching to the nbn network is not automatic and we recommend that customers move to the network, or an alternative solution, before their disconnection date to avoid losing connectivity which might leave them vulnerable in an emergency," he said.

Mr Hardie stressed that registration is optional and any further support requests after the cut-off date could be managed directly via the customer's alarm supplier, phone or internet provider.

He said nbn would advise customers and internet providers of any upcoming disconnection dates with at least 18 months' notice.

"If you are already connected to the nbn network or an alternative network and your medical alarm is working, no action is required," he said. "If you are unsure, we still recommend that you submit your details on our register."

The June 30 date will also mark the closure of the Unmonitored Medical Alarm Upgrade Offer under which eligible people have been able to obtain upgraded medical alarms at discounted prices of up to of 80 per cent from participating alarm suppliers.

An unmonitored medical alarm calls a family member, friend, neighbour or 000 when triggered, as opposed to a monitored alarm, which calls a 24/7 alarm-monitoring centre that may have a monthly fee, or a locally monitored alarm, which calls the staff at an aged care or retirement facility.

To join the Medical Alarm register or check if you, your family member or someone you care for is eligible for the Unmonitored Medical Alarm call 1800-227-300 or click HERE.