Minister for Regional Communications, Senator Bridget McKenzie has welcomed the news that the Coalition’s $220 million Mobile Black Spot Program has delivered its 400th mobile base station under rounds 1 and 2.
“I am delighted that the Mobile Black Spot Program has switched on its 400th base station in Killingworth in the electorate of Indi in Victoria,” Minister McKenzie said.
“I know locals in this region have had problems with mobile reception, this will alleviate many of those problems, thanks to the Mobile Black Spots Program.
“The program is delivering 21st century telecommunication technology that’s providing better mobile coverage to people and helping them to stay connected, access education and do business.
“Modern and reliable telecommunications services are essential to keeping our regions strong by growing local regional economies. Our program is improving mobile services across Australia, in small communities and along transport routes where they otherwise would not have been built.
“Only the Coalition Government is committed to delivering better telecommunications to those people living, working and investing in rural and regional Australia. Despite being in Government for six years, Labor did not invest a single dollar into improving mobile coverage.
“Despite having the third largest number of Mobile Black Spot towers in Australia in her electorate, Independent MP Cathy McGowan’s support for the Government’s achievements with this program is lukewarm at best.
“The delivery of the 400th tower has only been possible due to our Coalition Government committing to improving telecommunications for Australians living, working and investing in regional Australia.
“The program is helping hundreds of rural communities access improved coverage thanks to the Coalition’s investment in new mobile infrastructure in regional and remote Australia.
“Through rounds 1 and 2 of the program, the Coalition Government is delivering 765 new mobile base stations across regional and remote Australia.
“The rollout is gathering pace with new base stations being activated almost every day.
“Telstra recently completed its 100th base station in Western Australia and 300th base station for the program overall.”
The Coalition Government commitment includes $60 million for a Priority Locations round to address mobile coverage issues at 106 priority black spot locations across Australia.
The competitive tender process for this round closed in December 2017. The successful applicants and locations to receive funding are expected to be announced soon.
For more information on the program visit: www.communications.gov.au/mbsp