MBSP funds another 180 mobile base stations

Under Round 4 of the Mobile Black Spot Program (MBSP), another 180 new base stations will be established across regional Australia.

This includes 73 base stations specifically targeting coverage issues at public interest premises, such as health and emergency services facilities. A total of 1047 mobile base stations will be established across Australia under the program.

“Mobile coverage is an essential service and it is vitally important that Australians in rural and remote locations do not miss out,” said Minister for Regional Services Bridget McKenzie.

“The announcement of successful Round 4 locations today will mean there are 1047 base stations being funded under the Mobile Black Spot Program. This reaffirms our commitment to delivering 21st century connectivity to our regions.

“Our commitment of over $25 million to Round 4, together with co-contributions from state governments and the mobile carriers, will see more than $83 million in new mobile infrastructure rolled out into regional and remote Australia. This is enabling us to deliver much-needed coverage to areas where it would otherwise not be commercially viable.

“Greater availability of mobile services is a big deal. It means staying safe in remote areas, keeping in contact with family and friends, unlocking access to online health and education services, and increased tourism and business opportunities.”

Even more Australians living in regional Australia will now benefit from expanded mobile coverage and more reliable communications.

So far the Mobile Black Spot Program is generating over $760 million of new investment in mobile infrastructure, including contributions from state and local governments, mobile network operators, businesses and local communities.

The base stations under the first three rounds are expected to be operational by 30 June 2019. Rollout of the Round 4 base stations will commence shortly, with the first new base stations being activated by the second half of the year.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/R. Roth

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