MOBILE BLACK SPOT PROGRAM DELIVERS FOR MURTHO AND WUNKAR

Mobile coverage continues to expand across regional Australia thanks to the Coalition Government’s $380 million Mobile Black Spot Program, with more than 750 mobile base stations now providing connectivity to regional and rural Australian communities, including in Wunkar and Murtho with Telstra service at both sites officially launched today.

Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the Coalition Government is delivering more reliable services for regional communities though improved network infrastructure.

“Mobile phone service is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity in many situations and while better regional communications can have a positive impact on our regional economic activity it’s also a critical safety issue,” Mr Pasin said.

“Our Mobile Blackspot Program is making a real difference for families, businesses and emergency services, living and working in remote communities have better connectivity where and when they need.”

With more than 70 per cent of the 1047 base stations funded through the first four rounds of the Program now complete, Mr Pasin reflected the Government’s commitment to providing reliable connectivity in the regions.

“Thanks to our Government’s investment, people living, working and travelling in Murtho and Wunkar will now have better mobile coverage,” Mr Pasin said.

Mr Pasin said the Mobile Black Spot Program is an example of what can be achieved when the mobile telecommunications providers, state and local governments, local businesses and communities work together.

“Each new mobile tower is connecting regional communities, increasing productivity and generating economic growth and increasing safety, which is why we are continuing to invest in additional program rounds,” Mr Pasin said.

Under the first four rounds of the program, the Government’s commitment has generated a total investment of more than $760 million in new mobile telecommunications infrastructure, with an additional $160 million in new Commonwealth funding for a fifth and sixth round of the program.

“I will continue to advocate for increased Government investment for further rounds of the Mobile blackspot Program so we can see more black spots addressed,” Mr Pasin said.