$23 million investment to further improve WA’s telecommunications
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Telecommunications in WA is receiving a huge boost with the Government’s $23 million investment under the Commonwealth’s Regional Connectivity Program.
The $23 million is one of the latest joint investments the McGowan Government and the Commonwealth Government provided to help bring mobile and broadband infrastructure to some of Western Australia’s most under-served areas.
“Strengthening our regional telecommunications is a priority for the McGowan Government, to support people living and working in our regions,” said Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan.
“Our strong investment into regional connectivity has ensured we have secured our fair share of Commonwealth funding through this program.”
The McGowan Government allocated $5.88 million towards Commonwealth’s Regional Connectivity Program, securing $17.1 million co-investment from Federal Government and additional funding from project applicants and third party contributors.
With the added funding, the Government has clear plans to boost mobile and broadband services for 16 projects across regional, rural and remote WA.
The type of technology solutions will vary across locations, ranging from mobile voice and data services to the installation of satellite, fibre and fixed wireless broadband.
“Mobile and broadband connectivity is essential to reduce the communications gaps for our regional businesses and to help build sustainable and vibrant regional communities,“ Minister MacTiernan said.
The Regional Connectivity Program is investing in telecommunications infrastructure, which is said to provide economic opportunities and improve participation in the digital economy for regional communities and businesses.
Overall, Western Australia has secured nearly 19 per cent of the total Commonwealth funding awarded nationally. Under it, the State Government has funded over 14 projects in Condingup, Catterick, Torndirrup, Bidyadanga, Cygnet Bay, Caiguna, Cocklebiddy, Coral Bay, South Stirling, Frankland River, Jigalong, Kalumburu and Halls Creek.
The McGowan Government has committed almost $50 million to regional digital connectivity projects since 2017, including the highly successful $13.2 million Digital Farm Grants program.
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