Telstra is now providing free access, for anyone on their network, to the Ask Izzy mobile website that connects people who are homeless or at risk to over 350,000 services nation-wide.

The event marks 10 months since Ask Izzy has been providing free and anonymous access to essential services like accommodation, food and blankets.

“Ask Izzy provides a vital solution for the many Australians who find themselves homeless each night, connecting them with the essential services they need, from shelter to healthcare,” said Telstra CEO, Andrew Penn.

“We want to ensure that Australians can access this support at their time of need which is why we’re pleased to announce free, unmetered access to Ask Izzy on the Telstra network.”

Infoxchange CEO, David Spriggs said the contribution of Telstra in the fight to end homelessness is significant.

“Over 80 per cent of people who are homeless own a smartphone. They are often on prepaid plans, but without credit to search for services they need,” Spriggs said. 

“Before today’s announcement, they had to find free wifi to access Ask Izzy.

“Telstra has removed a significant barrier for the 1 in 200 people who are homeless each night to access help, the importance of which cannot be understated.”

The Telstra development comes just weeks after an additional $500 000 was announced by Google to fund the Ask Izzy open data platform, which will map service demand.

“The top three searches on Ask Izzy are accommodation, food and everyday things like blankets and showers,” said Spriggs.

“We hope free access to Ask Izzy on Telstra’s extensive regional and metropolitan network will encourage more people to seek help.

“This will provide important data that can help us improve the delivery of services for people who are homeless or at risk into the future.”