Motorola to build $40 million emergency services radio network in WA

Motorola has secured a five-year contract worth $40 million to build a digital radio network for Western Australia’s emergency services.

Once completed, the network is expected to be valued at more than $120 million and become one of the largest networks of its kind in terms of sheer geographic footprint, coming in at a total of 45,000 km².

The project will enable the Western Australia Police (WAPOL), Department of Corrective Services (DCS) and Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) to communicate across a single, multijurisdictional network for the first time.

“The new network reaffirms our commitment to equip our officers with the most resilient and advanced communication system possible and is particularly significant as it will enable police, fire and corrective service officers to communicate seamlessly across a single network for the first time, helping them enhance the safety of every person in Western Australia,” said Chris Dawson, Deputy Commissioner, Western Australia Police Service.

Dawson said the network is “a significant win for our rural and regional communities, who do not have the appropriate communication tools at present”.

As part of the project, Motorola will provide two-way radios for use across the three agencies, upgrade the existing Police Metropolitan Radio Network central core and extend the digital encrypted system technology across more than 200 radio sites state-wide.

Gary Starr, Managing Director, Motorola Solutions Australia and New Zealand, said: “This new shared network will greatly enhance control and capability in the field, contributing to the success of preventing and fighting crimes, and saving lives across the state.”

Construction will commence in early 2012.