What is Meshtastic?
Meshtastic is an open-source project that turns cheap LoRa radio modules into a long-range mesh network. Each device is both a node and a router — messages hop between nodes automatically, extending range far beyond what any single radio can reach.
You send a text message on your phone via Bluetooth, it goes to the Meshtastic node in your pocket, and hops across other nodes until it reaches the destination — without touching the internet at all.
In Australia, the network operates on the 915 MHz ISM band (ANZ region), which is licence-free and approved by the ACMA for low-power devices under LIPD class licences.
Australian frequency: 915 MHz (ANZ region). Set this in the Meshtastic app before transmitting — using the wrong region violates ACMA regulations.
Key features
- Range: 5–15 km node-to-node in open terrain; further with elevated nodes
- Encryption: AES-256 channel encryption — messages are private by default
- No internet: The mesh works entirely over RF, even if the internet is down
- Long battery life: Nodes can run for days on a small LiPo, weeks on solar
- Free: No SIM, no data plan, no subscription ever
- GPS: Optional position sharing for SAR, hiking, and events
Quick specs — ANZ region
| Frequency band | 915 MHz (AU/NZ) |
| Modulation | LoRa (CSS) |
| Typical range | 3–15 km open air |
| Max nodes/hop | 3 hops (default) |
| Encryption | AES-256 |
| Licence needed | None (ISM band) |
| Firmware | Open-source (Apache 2.0) |
See nodes near you: The Meshtastic mesh map shows live node positions worldwide. Filter to Australia to find coverage in your area.
Hardware
Recommended devices for Australia
All devices below support the ANZ (915 MHz) frequency plan. AliExpress prices are approximate — local suppliers may be faster.
Heltec V3
Compact, ESP32-S3 based, built-in OLED display and USB-C. Good battery connector. Very popular in AU communities.
LILYGO T-Beam
Built-in GPS, 18650 battery holder. Great for mobile nodes and tracking. Get the v1.1 or Supreme variant.
RAK WisBlock
Modular platform. Ultra-low power consumption. Ideal for solar-powered permanent installations and rooftop nodes.
LILYGO T-Echo
E-Ink display, nRF52840 chip. Long battery life. Good for fixed relay nodes that need to be checked occasionally.
Where to buy: AliExpress official stores for Heltec and LILYGO are reliable. aliexpress.com — search for "Heltec LoRa 32 V3" or "LILYGO T-Beam Supreme". Budget 3–4 weeks for shipping, or pay extra for fast post.
Setup guide
Getting started in 4 steps
-
Flash the firmware
Visit flasher.meshtastic.org — it runs entirely in Chrome/Edge and flashes your device over USB in one click. No software to install.
-
Install the Meshtastic app
Available on Android (Play Store / F-Droid), iOS (App Store), and as a web client. Connect to your device via Bluetooth.
-
Set region to ANZ
In the app: Radio Config → LoRa → Region →
ANZ. This selects the correct 915 MHz channel plan for Australia and New Zealand. -
Join a local channel
The default channel is fine for testing. For local community nets, ask your regional Discord or Telegram for the shared channel PSK.
Australian community
Common Australian channels
These are community-agreed channels used by Australian Meshtastic groups. The default channel (LongFast) is always a good starting point.
| Channel name | Modem preset | Use case | PSK |
|---|---|---|---|
| LongFast (default) | LONG_FAST | General public mesh | Default (public) |
| MediumSlow | MEDIUM_SLOW | Better range, lower throughput | Default (public) |
| Local EmComm | LONG_FAST | Emergency communications | Contact local group |
| State nets | Varies | State-specific community | Contact local group |
Meshtastic Australia Discord
The main hub for Australian Meshtastic users. Find your state channel, share node placements, get setup help.
Join DiscordAustralian node map
See all nodes broadcasting their position. Useful for planning relay placements and finding coverage gaps.
Open meshmap.netOfficial documentation
Full Meshtastic docs, including advanced config, MQTT bridging, and Python scripting.
Read docsFrequencies & Australian regulations
Meshtastic devices operating in Australia use the 915–928 MHz ISM band under ACMA's Low Interference Potential Devices (LIPD) class licence. This means:
- No individual licence required
- Maximum EIRP of 1 W (30 dBm) — most Meshtastic devices are well below this
- Duty cycle restrictions apply (typically ≤ 1%)
- Must not cause harmful interference to licensed services
Important: Always set your device region to ANZ before operating in Australia. Using the US or other regions will transmit on frequencies not permitted under Australian law.
The relevant ACMA instrument is the Radiocommunications (Low Interference Potential Devices) Class Licence 2015. Hobbyists operating within these limits have no reporting or registration requirements.