With a large, distributed workforce and a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Cairns Regional Council faced increasing pressure to modernise its communications infrastructure.

The legacy TIPT (Telstra IP Telephony) environment was becoming difficult to manage internally, leading to inefficiencies, security concerns, and limited scalability. The Council needed a robust, future-ready solution to support both operational efficiency and community service delivery.

The Council required a seamless transition from its existing TIPT environment to a modern, cloud-based unified communications platform. Key requirements included secure mobile device management, streamlined user experience for over 1,100 staff, comprehensive training, and ongoing managed services. The solution needed to ensure business continuity, enhance collaboration, and provide the flexibility to adapt to future needs.

imei, in partnership with Telstra, designed and delivered a tailored migration to Microsoft Operator Connect for Cairns Regional Council. The project began with a 30-day pilot, followed by a staged rollout to all users.

imei provided end-to-end project management, technical support, and user training, ensuring a smooth and secure transition. The Council’s mobile device fleet was also optimised through a comprehensive MDM health check and remediation, leveraging AirWatch integration for enhanced security and control.

Cairns Regional Council now benefits from a reliable, scalable, and expertly managed communications environment. The migration to Microsoft Operator Connect has delivered improved collaboration, simplified administration, and robust security across the organisation. Council staff enjoy a seamless user experience, while the IT team is freed to focus on strategic initiatives. The partnership with imei and Telstra has strengthened the Council’s digital foundation, supporting its vision for innovation and community service excellence.

Cairns Regional Council governs a region spanning 1,687 km² in Far North Queensland, encompassing the city of Cairns and surrounding communities. The Council delivers a wide range of services, including infrastructure, community programs, environmental management, and economic development. Renowned for its natural beauty and cultural diversity, Cairns is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage areas.