CALL OUT FOR APPLICATIONS TO IMPROVE DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY IN BARKER

Industry, organisations and communities in Barker are invited to apply for a share in up to $112 million under Round 2 of the Australian Government’s Regional Connectivity Program, aimed at improving digital connectivity in regional and remote Australia.

Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin MP is encouraging local communities to work together with telecommunication providers to submit strong applications for funding.

Mr Pasin said all interested parties in the region should consider applying if internet accessibility is an issue impacting themselves or their businesses.

“The lack of mobile and digital connectivity across many areas in Barker is the number one issue raised by my constituents, with an estimated 499 blackspots across Barker.”

“We know this has been a particularly stressful year for everyone, so improved connectivity through the Program will allow communities and businesses across Barker to remain connected, access essential online services and utilise remote working arrangements, which is crucial as we continue adapting to the impacts of the pandemic,” Mr Pasin said.

“The Regional Connectivity Program provides targeted upgrades to connectivity in regional areas that need it the most, ensuring that everyone can access high-speed, reliable broadband and mobile services,” Mr Pasin said.

“Examples of projects that could be funded under the Program include upgrades to mobile infrastructure to improve community access to telehealth, remote education and retail internet and phone services, or the development of enterprise-grade broadband networks to support local agricultural, manufacturing and tourism businesses to engage more competitively online.”

Round 2 Guidelines calls for applications from the telecommunications industry, regional communities and development organisations, as well as state, territory and local governments.

“Following the oversubscription of Round 1 of the Program, we are now calling for applications for Round 2 of the Program. The Program takes a ‘place-based’ approach to telecommunications investment and recognises the distinct digital needs of our regions, including in the electorate of Barker,” Mr Pasin said.

“This is a great opportunity for communities, local governments, and telecommunication providers in the electorate of Barker to work together on proposals that will deliver much-needed improvements in telecommunications infrastructure.” Mr Pasin said.

The Australian Government has invested approximately $229 million in the program, committing $117.4 million under Round 1 to deliver more than 130 projects and up to $112 million for Round 2, which includes around $45 million of dedicated funding for Northern Australia.

To apply, and for more information, visit https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-technology-communications/internet/regional-connectivity-program.

Potential projects can be found and registered on the Program Noticeboard at www.communications.gov.au/what-we-do/internet/regional-connectivity-program/regional-connectivity-program-noticeboard.

ENDS.