Communications Infrastructure

Regional and remote communities to receive better mobile coverage

Eliza Sayon Jul 23, 2021

< 1 min read

Regional and remote communities across the country will now benefit from a new and improved mobile coverage thanks to Round 5A of the Australian Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program.

The Australian Government has just announced its commitment of around $20.5 million to fund 67 new mobile base stations across Australia, boosting mobile coverage in several areas.

“This announcement brings the total number of base stations funded under our Mobile Black Spot Program to over 1,270 base stations, representing a total investment of over $875 million,” Minister for Regionalisation, Regional Communications and Regional Education Bridget McKenzie said.

“These base stations will improve coverage in disaster-prone areas, along major transport corridors and trial new approaches to delivering coverage.”

The construction of the 67 new mobile base stations across regional and remote Australia is funded under Round 5A of the Mobile Black Spot Program, collectively delivering over 12,000 square kilometres of new and improved handheld coverage.

Minister McKenzie said a key priority of Round 5A of the Mobile Black Spot Program is to test new approaches in supporting improved mobile coverage.

“The Liberals and Nationals Government encourage mobile network operators to deploy shared mobile infrastructure to reduce cost and provide new coverage from more than one carrier,” Minister McKenzie said.

“‘Round 5A includes funding for a trial solution of seven base stations from Thargomindah to Waihora in Queensland, including at East Thargo, Dynevor Downs, Bulloo, Paroo and Eulo that will allow all mobile network operators to provide services.”

With the belief that having access to 21st-century communications is an essential service for everyone across the country, the Australian Government will continue to work with industry and state and local governments to improve mobile coverage and connectivity.

The full list of base stations funded under Round 5A of the MBSP is available on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications website.

Eliza Sayon

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Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.