By Jed Lanyon
Residents of Chum Creek and other Victorians will benefit from improved mobile coverage and more reliable communications under Round 4 of the government’s Mobile Black Spot Program.
Minister for Regional Services and Deputy Leader of The Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie announced the locations of 32 new base stations in Victoria, improving mobile coverage in regional and remote communities.
“Reliable and effective mobile communications are a key driver of the enormous contribution that our regions make to Australia’s economic growth,” said Minister McKenzie.
“Greater availability of mobile services is a big deal. It means staying safe in remote areas, keeping in contact with family and friends, unlocking access to online health and education services as well as increased tourism and business opportunities.”
Under Round 4 of the program, $21.7 million will be invested in mobile infrastructure in Victoria. This includes $6.5 million funding from the Commonwealth and $5.8 million from the Victorian Government.
The Mobile Black Spot Program is delivering 1047 new base stations and generating over $760 million of new investment in mobile infrastructure including contributions from state and local governments, mobile network operators, businesses and local communities.
Base stations under the first three rounds are scheduled 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.
For further details on Round 4 visit: www.communications.gov.au/mbsp
