Telcos prepare for Aussies to work at home

Telecommunications companies are preparing for boost in daytime traffic as more Australians work from home because of coronavirus.

Communications Minister Paul Fletcher on Monday held a teleconference with senior executives of NBN Co, Optus, Telstra, Vodafone, TPG and Vocus.

The companies have set up a working group to share information with each around issues emerging from the virus, such as engineering, security and operations.

"Our telcos are quickly responding to the evolving challenges of COVID-19 and have in place business continuity plans to continue to deliver vital telecommunications services," Mr Fletcher said.

The companies are bracing from the increase in network traffic after Italy reported a 26 per cent increase in fixed line peak hour network traffic because of more people working from home.

The telcos are also awaiting advice from the government on how to protect technicians against customers that are self-isolating.