"We see the integration of LTE technology into the Next G network as a way to continue to deliver high quality services and meet growing customer demand," Thodey said in a statement.

Three months later the telco switched on its first 4G mobile equipment in Sydney, Perth, Melbourne and Brisbane in August 2011 for commercial trials. Telstra also released its first commercial 4G USB device, which used 4G/3G HSPA technology to access 1800MHz and 850MHz spectrum bands.

In September 2011, Telstra opened up its 4G network to the public, stating customers could access download speeds of 2-40Mbps. However, 4G access was limited to within 5km from capital city GPOs and within 3km from town centres in 80 regional centres across Australia.

One year after the telco originally announced it was embarking on a 4G upgrade, Telstra also launched a pre-paid 4G product and a battery-powered mobile wi-fi device in March this year.

In April, Telstra announced it was extending its 4G coverage to some Newcastle suburbs to more than double the telco's 4G coverage.