Definitions in this document are based on terminology from the ACMA’s 2024 annual consumer survey (ACS) questionnaire and related reports, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Internet activity report and the Internet Activity Record Keeping Rules (ACCC definitions are marked *). Data from previous ACS questionnaires is published on the ACMA’s website in Power BI format.
Terms
4G
Fourth-generation mobile telecommunications that supports voice, video, data and high-quality streaming multimedia content over an all-internet-protocol network.
5G
Fifth-generation mobile telecommunications that provides increased data rates and reduced latency to support greater connectivity and enables machine-to-machine services and the Internet of Things. Radiofrequency beamforming technology is often used to improve performance and efficiency.
ACCC
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. Australian government agency responsible for promoting competition and protecting consumers' rights.
actively engage
Participation in various online actions, such as posting, sharing, commenting or reacting to content on websites or apps. Defined in the ACS questionnaire as: Actively engaging includes sharing, commenting and/or interacting with the content, such as clicking on 'like'.
aerial/antenna
Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as: External TV antennas are usually mounted on a roof top and designed to receive broadcast television signals such as free-to-air TV. They are connected to a TV using a cable plugged into an aerial TV socket. An antenna is not required for TV streamed over the internet.
AM radio
A traditional type of radio broadcasting that uses amplitude modulation to transmit audio content over the airwaves.
app
Short for ‘application’; a software program that allows a user to perform a specific task either on a particular device or online. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as: An application or program that can be downloaded on to a mobile phone or other device.
audio streaming service
Online platforms or services that provide access to streaming audio content over the internet, allowing users to listen to music, podcasts or other audio content on-demand.
Bluetooth tracking tag/device
Devices equipped with Bluetooth technology used for tracking or locating objects within a certain distance, often used with smartphone apps.
catch-up TV
A service that allows viewers to watch previously aired television shows when and where they want through digital applications. Examples include ABC iView or SBS On Demand.
celebrities and social media influencers
Individuals or personalities who have a significant impact on public opinion, trends or behaviours, often through their influence on social media platforms or traditional media channels.
communication and social media website/app
Websites and applications that enable users to create, share and consume content online, communicate and participate in social networking.
content
Information, data or creative material presented in various forms such as text, images, videos or audio, available on websites, social media or other digital platforms.
community or special interest group
A group of people who share common interests, characteristics or goals and interact online or offline to pursue shared interests or activities.
communications service
Technology that enables sending, making and/or receiving calls (including voice or video calls) and messages from one user to another. Examples include fixed-line services, mobile phone services and internet services.
desktop computer
A personal computer designed to be used on a desk or table, typically consisting of a monitor, keyboard, mouse and central processing unit (CPU), used for various computing tasks and applications.
device connected to the internet
Any electronic device equipped with network connectivity capabilities, allowing it to access and communicate over the internet. Examples include computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs and other IoT devices.
digital media player/streaming device
Electronic devices or gadgets designed to stream digital media content such as music, videos or movies from online services or local storage to a display or audio system.
digital radio (DAB+)
Digital radio broadcasting standard. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as: Broadcast free-to-air like AM/FM radio but uses a digital signal requiring a Digital Audio Broadcast (DAB+)-enabled device. It does not include listening to the radio on the internet or podcasts.
engaging with content
Interacting with or consuming digital media or content available on websites, social media platforms or other online channels, including actions such as viewing, liking, sharing, commenting or reacting to content.
e-sport
Organised, competitive video gaming involving professional or amateur players competing in multiplayer video game tournaments or leagues, often with prize money.
e-reader
Electronic devices or gadgets designed for reading digital books, magazines or other written content in electronic format.
FM radio
A traditional type of radio broadcasting that uses frequency modulation to transmit audio content over the airwaves.
free-to-air (FTA) TV
Television broadcasts available to the public without requiring a subscription or payment, typically transmitted by antennas or digital TV receivers. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as: Broadcast television services where the signal is delivered without charge to the viewer (e.g. Channels 7, 9, 10, ABC, SBS or others, e.g. 7mate and 9Go!).
free-to-air (FTA) catch-up TV and streaming service
Internet service typically provided on free-to-air and subscription broadcasters’ websites for users to watch content previously shown on TV or programming exclusive to the app, often available for a limited period. Examples include ABC iView, 10 Play and 7Plus for FTA programs, and Foxtel Go for subscription broadcasters. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as: Allows viewers to stream free-to-air TV either live or after it has been broadcast (on-demand) along with other shows or movies from their catalogue, without charge.
games console
Specialised device used to play video games. Examples include PlayStation, Xbox and Wii.
GPS tracking tag or device
Electronic devices or tags equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, used for tracking or locating objects, assets or individuals with real-time location data.
household internet connection
Access to internet services for a residential household, including broadband, wi-fi or fixed-line connections, allowing multiple devices in the house to connect to the internet.
How we communicate
An ACMA report produced as part of the Communications and media in Australia series that shows the ways we connect and interact. It focuses on how we use phone services and apps for calls and messages, and the ways we use communications and social media sites and apps.
How we use the internet
An ACMA report produced as part of the Communications and media in Australia series that shows which devices we use to go online and how often, and what we do when using the internet.
How we watch and listen to content
An ACMA report produced as part of the Communications and media in Australia series that explores the changes in how we watch and listen to online and offline content. It includes what we are watching, how we use devices, streaming and online subscription services, and what we are listening to.
internet
A global network of interconnected computer networks and servers that enables the transmission and exchange of data, information and communication services worldwide, accessible via various devices and technologies.
internet use
Activities conducted by individuals or organizations while online, including browsing websites, sending emails, downloading files, streaming media and participating in online communities or social networks.
landline telephone
Telephone service installed at a residential property, allowing users to make voice calls using a physical phone connected to a fixed telephone line or network.
laptop computer
Portable computing devices designed for mobile use, featuring a built-in screen, keyboard and touchpad, allowing users to perform various computing tasks on the go.
message
Communication transmitted through text, audio or visual means, exchanged between individuals or groups through various communication channels such as email, messaging apps or social media platforms.
messaging/calling app
A software application or platform used for making voice calls, video calls and sending text messages or multimedia messages (MMS) over the internet or mobile networks, facilitating real-time communication.
metropolitan location
Urban area characterised by high population density, extensive infrastructure and diverse economic activities, typically comprising cities and surrounding suburbs. Defined in the ACS methodology as: Those who live in a state or territory capital city (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, ACT, Hobart, Darwin), as defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ (ABS) Greater Capital City Statistical Area definitions.
mobile broadband
An internet connection that provides short range, high data-rate connections between mobile data devices and access points connected to a network. Examples include mobile WiMax and 3G/4G accessed through a datacard, USB modem or tablet SIM card (excluding a mobile handset).
mobile phone
Wireless communication device primarily used for making voice calls, sending text messages and accessing mobile internet services, also known as a smartphone, featuring built-in cellular connectivity.
music streaming
Online delivery of audio content, where users can listen without downloading the media.
NBN – National Broadband Network
A government-owned wholesale broadband network infrastructure project in Australia, aiming to provide high-speed internet access to homes, businesses and institutions nationwide using various technologies such as fibre-optic, satellite and fixed wireless. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as: Most NBN connections require a utility box fixed outside your premises and use an ‘NBN connection box’ installed inside your premises that connects to your computer router/modem. NBN internet or phone includes FTTP, FTTN, FTTB, FTTC or HFC. Fixed wireless or satellite can also be on the NBN. ADSL internet is not available on the NBN.
news
Current events, information or reports about recent developments or happenings, disseminated through various media channels such as newspapers, television, radio, websites and social media platforms. Includes any factual reporting by journalists or other information on current events at a local, regional, national or international level.
newspapers
Publications containing news articles, features, editorials and advertisements, usually distributed daily or weekly to subscribers or sold at newsstands, covering local, national and international news and topics. Examples include the Herald Sun and The Australian.
non-music audio
Audio content, excluding music, for listening or streaming. Examples include spoken-word recordings, podcasts, audiobooks, radio programs, sound effects and voice memos.
non-NBN fixed services*
Internet services provided over DSL, cable/HFC, fibre, fixed wireless and satellite, excluding voice-only services and services provided by the NBN.
official/reputable sources
Reliable and credible sources of information, data or news content from authoritative organisations, government agencies, academic institutions, reputable media outlets or subject matter experts.
offline
Activities, devices or services that are not connected to the internet or unavailable online, such as offline applications, offline media or offline communication. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as: A person who did not use a device to access the internet at home or elsewhere in the past 6 months, for personal purposes.
online
Activities, services or content accessible online or through internet-enabled devices, including websites, apps, streaming services and online communication platforms. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as: A person who did not use a device to access the internet at home or elsewhere in the past 6 months, for personal purposes.
online gambling
An activity undertaken over the internet characterised by participants placing bets or wagering money on games of chance or skill through digital platforms. This may include lotteries, sporting events and casino games.
online news aggregator or app
Online platform or software device that collects news stories and other information sources as they are published and organises it in in a specific manner. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as:A news aggregator website or app combines online news content in one location for easy viewing.
online video
Video content available on the internet, including streaming videos, video clips, web series, movies, documentaries, tutorials and user-generated content, accessible through websites, social media and video-sharing platforms.
online video services
Digital platforms or streaming services that provide access to a range of online video content, including movies, TV shows, web series, documentaries and user-generated videos, available for streaming or download.
online pay-per-view services
Digital platforms or streaming services that offer premium or exclusive content to rent or purchase individual movies, TV shows, live events or sports matches for a one-time fee. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as: Pay-per-view service to rent/buy movie/TV show (e.g. Prime video stores, Telstra TV Box Office).
paid subscription services
Digital platforms or online services that offer access to premium content, features or services, such as ad-free experiences or exclusive content, for a recurring subscription fee.
pay TV
Television services provided on a subscription basis, offering a range of channels, programs and content packages to subscribers for a monthly fee, delivered via cable, satellite, IPTV or internet streaming.
personal video recorder (PVR)
Digital device or set-top box equipped with recording capabilities, allowing users to capture, store and playback television programs, movies or live broadcasts.
personal purposes
Individual or private reasons, motivations or intentions for using a product, service or technology, reflecting personal preferences, needs or goals of users in their daily lives or activities.
podcast
An episodic audio program that can be downloaded or streamed, covering a variety of topics including news, storytelling and education.
post content
Share or publish content online, including text, images, videos, links or updates, on social media platforms, blogs, forums or websites, allowing users to engage with others and contribute to online conversations or communities.
post-paid mobile*
Mobile telephony services for which a consumer contracts to pay a specified monthly charge for access. Post-paid mobile plans may also include a mobile handset.
professionally produced news media outlet
Established media organisations, publishers or news agencies that produce and disseminate news content through various media channels and adhere to journalistic standards, ethics and practices.
public payphone
A telephone available for public use in common areas such as streets, airports, train stations or public buildings.
prepaid mobile*
Mobile telephony services for which a consumer is not billed regularly, but pays upfront for the handset, access and data.
radio online
Digital radio broadcasts or streaming audio content accessible over the internet, allowing users to listen to radio stations, programs or channels online via websites, apps or internet radio platforms.
respondents
Individuals or participants who respond to surveys, questionnaires, interviews or research studies, providing data, opinions, feedback or responses to researchers, analysts or survey administrators. ‘Respondents’ is the term used to refer to people who complete specific questions in the ACS.
regional location
Geographic area or locality outside major urban centres or metropolitan regions, often characterised by smaller population density, rural landscapes or specific geographic features. Defined in the ACS methodology as: Those who live in the rest of the state or territory (outside the 8 state or territory capital cities), as defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ (ABS) Greater Capital City Statistical Area definitions.
smart device
Internet-connected electronic device or appliance with advanced features, capabilities or functionalities, including smart TVs, smart speakers, smart home appliances, wearables and other devices capable of automation, remote control or interaction.
smart display
Digital display or screen integrated with smart technology, internet connectivity and interactive features, allowing users to access information, control smart devices or engage with multimedia content via touch, voice or gestures.
smart home appliance
Household appliance or device equipped with smart technology, internet connectivity and automation features, allowing remote control, monitoring or scheduling of appliance functions or operations for convenience, energy efficiency or security.
smart speakers
Speakers or digital assistants equipped with voice recognition technology, allowing users to interact with the device using voice commands or natural language to perform tasks, control smart home devices or access information or services. Referred to in the 2024ACS questionnaire as: voice-controlled smart speakers.
smart TV
Television set with integrated internet connectivity, smart features and built-in apps, allowing users to stream online content, access digital services and interact with multimedia content on the TV screen without additional devices or peripherals. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as: An internet-enabled TV set with built-in apps. It doesn’t need a separate device to go online (e.g. a set-top box or games console).
SMS – short message service
See texting.
standard TV
Traditional television set or broadcast signal format without internet connectivity, interactive features or smart capabilities, relying on analog or digital broadcast signals received via antennas or cable connections. Defined in the 2024 ACS questionnaire as:A TV set that can be used to watch programs from broadcasting stations. It cannot directly connect to the internet and does not have an internal internet connection. It can only be connected to the internet using a separate device (for example, Apple TV, a Fire TV Stick, Hubbl device, Chromecast device or games console).
stream
Continuous flow of digital media content, data packets or information transmitted over the internet or computer networks, allowing users to access and consume audio, video or multimedia content in real-time without downloading an entire file.
streaming services
Online platforms, websites or apps that provide access to media content, including music, movies, TV shows, podcasts and live broadcasts. Users can access content over the internet on-demand or via live streaming without downloading it.
subscription TV channels
Television channels or networks available to consumers on a subscription basis, offering access to premium or specialised content, including movies, sports, documentaries and entertainment programs, through cable, satellite, IPTV or internet streaming services.
tablet
Portable computing device with a touchscreen interface, larger than a smartphone and smaller than a laptop, capable of web browsing, multimedia playback, app usage and other computing tasks, powered by mobile operating systems such as iOS or Android.
TB – terabyte*
Unit of digital information storage capacity equal to one trillion bytes (1,000,000,000,000 bytes) or approximately 1,024 gigabytes (GB), commonly used to measure data volume, file sizes or storage capacities of hard drives, SSDs or cloud storage services.
texting
Sending short text messages (SMS) using a mobile phone or smartphone.
total volume downloaded*
Cumulative amount of data downloaded from the internet or online sources, measured in TB or GB, reflecting the total data consumption or use over a specific period or across multiple users or devices.
total fixed*
Aggregate statistics in ACMA reports or publications referring to metrics relating to fixed-line internet services, including broadband subscriptions, data usage, network coverage or market share, providing insights into the overall performance or status of fixed broadband infrastructure.
total mobile*
Aggregate statistics in ACMA reports of publications referring to metrics related to mobile telecommunications services, including mobile subscriptions, data use, network coverage or market share, providing insights into the overall performance or status of mobile networks and services.
trusted professionals
Reputable and reliable experts, professionals or authorities in their respective fields, recognized for their knowledge, expertise, integrity and ethical standards, often consulted for advice, guidance or services by individuals, businesses or organisations.
user-generated or short-form online video service
Online platforms, websites or services such as video-sharing sites, vlogs or micro-video platforms that host and distribute videos that are typically under 10 minutes, created by individuals, influencers or content creators. Examples include YouTube, TikTok and Instagram Reels.
video call
Real-time audiovisual communication conducted between individuals or groups over the internet or telecommunications networks, using video conferencing software, messaging apps or dedicated video calling services on computers, smartphones or tablets.
voice call
Real-time audio communication between individuals or groups using voice communication technologies, including traditional landline phones, mobile phones, VoIP services or internet-based calling applications.
volume of data downloaded*
Amount of data downloaded by wholesale services in operation or retail services in operation during a reporting period.
wearable device
Electronic devices or gadgets designed to be worn on the body, such as smartwatches, fitness trackers or wearable sensors that are equipped with sensors, displays and wireless connectivity to monitor health, fitness or activity levels and provide notifications, alerts or data insights.