Coast people can look forward to improved mobile phone coverage thanks to the Liberal and Nationals Government’s $220 million Mobile Black Spot Program.
Minister for Regional Services Bridget McKenzie and Fairfax MP Ted O’Brien today announced his electorate would receive two new base stations under the fourth round of the program.
A new macro base station will go up in Mapleton while the popular camping area of Charlie Moreland near Kenilworth will benefit from a small cell base station. Both are notorious black spots and Mr O’Brien said the improved coverage would be greatly welcomed.
These are areas identified by people in the electorate as part of our campaign in September last year to list black spot locations around Fairfax.
“The Government have listened to the people of Fairfax and I’m thrilled that residents and businesses in Fairfax can now enjoy the benefits and opportunities that improved mobile connectivity brings,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Improved mobile coverage will help keep our businesses connected, our families to stay in touch and it means we can better access health and online services on the go.”
Minister McKenzie said Round 4 of the program will deliver 26 new base stations in Qld, including public interest premises such as tourist sites and emergency services facilities.
“The announcement of successful Round 4 base stations means 1047 base stations are being delivered under the Mobile Black Spot Program. This reaffirms our commitment to delivering 21st century connectivity to our regions and will benefit thousands of Australians.”
“Our continued investment in mobile phone infrastructure is proof that we are focused on connecting all Australians no matter where they live,” Minister McKenzie said.
The Mobile Black Spot Program enables mobile carriers to service areas where it would otherwise not be commercially viable. So far the program is generating over $760 million of new investment including contributions from state and local governments, mobile network operators, businesses and local communities.
Base stations under the first three rounds are expected to be operational by 30 June 2019. Round 4 base stations are expected to roll out shortly with the first new base stations being activated by the second half of the year.
More information about the program is available at: communications.gov.au/mbsp