People living in the Far West and North West areas of New South Wales can now look forward to improved mobile phone coverage thanks to the Liberal and Nationals Government’s $220 million Mobile Black Spot Program.
Member for Parkes Mark Coulton today announced five new base stations in his electorate under Round 4 of the program, along with Minister for Regional Services Bridget McKenzie.
“I’m thrilled that residents and businesses in the Far West and North West areas of my electorate will enjoy the benefits that improved mobile connectivity brings,” Mr Coulton said.
“The locations for five new Telstra base stations include Tilpa, Silverton Exchange, Enngonia, Pimpara Lake (near Packsaddle) and Naree Station (near Yantabulla).
“Improved mobile coverage in each of these locations will help keep our businesses connected, our families to stay in touch, and it means we can better access health and online services on the go.”
Minister McKenzie said Round 4 of the program will deliver 180 new base stations for regional and remote communities, including public interest premises such as tourist sites and emergency services facilities.
“The announcement of successful Round 4 base stations means 1047 base stations are being delivered under the Mobile Black Spot Program. This reaffirms our commitment to delivering 21st century connectivity to our regions and will benefit thousands of Australians,” Minister McKenzie said.
“Our continued investment in mobile phone infrastructure is proof that we are focused on connecting all Australians no matter where they live.”
The Mobile Black Spot Program enables mobile carriers to expand coverage areas where it would otherwise not be commercially viable. So far the program is generating over $760 million of new investment including contributions from state and local governments, mobile network operators, businesses and local communities.
Base stations under the first three rounds are expected to be operational by 30 June 2019. Round 4 base stations are expected to roll out shortly with the first new base stations being activated by the second half of the year.
More information about the program is available at: communications.gov.au/mbsp
