Telstra

Burke Shire has limited cellular phone coverage for Telstra users only.  It is mainly in a small radius of towns and some stations. A satellite phone may be a good option if you're on an extensive adventure. 

UHF CB is another alternative it is freely available to all Australians and does not require a license or registration to use. This means you can communicate from your vehicle to other vehicles in close proximity which is essential for safety reasons (eg. warn oncoming vehicles when visibility is impaired), can aid in navigation (convoy procedures), and call nearby travellers for help.

Handheld or in-car UHFs are available, though radios have a limited range of around 5km to 20km and good reception is heavily dependent on terrain. Hilly or densely vegetated areas can reduce transmission considerably. Using this type of radio on a high hill or tower can also increase its range.  The trucking community widely uses channel 40.   

Personal Locator Devices or EPIRB 

They are becoming more popular and affordable.  Consider investing in one for use in an emergency.