Applications are open for Stage 2 of the Albanese Government’s targeted election commitment program to improve mobile coverage in Majors Creek and Mangrove Mountain.
In October 2023, the Government announced funded solutions for 42 locations under the Improving Mobile Coverage Round (IMCR).
“The Albanese Government recognises that Australians deserve reliable mobile coverage,” said Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP.
“This targeted round will further test industry solutions and seek co-investment to deliver on two election commitments to improve mobile coverage in Majors Creek and Mangrove Mountain.”
“I encourage local communities and councils to engage with mobile operators to give this round the best chance of succeeding.”
The Government committed to examine options to further test industry solutions for two locations that did not meet technical requirements, but where Departmental advice indicated a value for money solution may exist.
Under Stage 2 of the IMCR, up to $ $3.05 million (GST inc.) is available to deliver new handheld coverage to Majors Creek and Mangrove Mountain in New South Wales.
This grant opportunity seeks proposed solutions that will lead to improved mobile coverage for the local communities and visitors to the area.
A recent audit of the IMCR by the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) concluded the IMCR program was consistent with Commonwealth grant rules and guidelines and largely effective.
Mobile network operators and infrastructure providers have until 25 September 2024 to apply for Stage 2 IMCR grant funding in the specified locations.
The IMCR comes in addition to the Government’s broader $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan (BCP) which commits funding to improve mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience.
This includes additional rounds of the Mobile Network Hardening Program (MNHP), the Regional Connectivity Program (RCP) and the Mobile Black Spot Program (MBSP).