# Elon Musk’s Starlink could be used to transmit Australian election voting results

Contract comes to light after questions raised about the increasing role of Musk in Australia’s communications systems

“The AEC will use Starlink services as a backup telecommunications platform as part of our contract with Telstra for fixed line internet services. Starlink is one of several possible backup services, which also include 4G mobile,” the spokesperson said.

All data would be encrypted, the spokesperson said.

“This service is part of our business continuity to ensure that encrypted election results data is communicated securely in a timely manner on election night and the weeks that follow.”

Voters will head to the polls this year for the federal election, although the date is yet to be called.

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