Mobile blackspot program funds 182 new base stations

Rural Australians will receive a major mobile coverage boost, after it was announced this week that 182 new base stations will be funded under the government’s Mobile Blackspot Program.

The $380 million upgrade, which represents Round 5 of the initiative, will commence this year, bringing its total number of base stations to 1229.

So far, more than $836 million has been invested in rural mobile infrastructure, since the program began last year.

Federal government will contribute $34 million to Round 5, with supplementary investments, totalling $73 million, from state governments and funding recipients.

Prior to the Mobile Blackspot Program, more than 6000 locations in Australia were classed as “poorly serviced” by telecommunications networks.

For residents living in remote communities, the announcement couldn’t come soon enough, with COVID-19 lockdown measures heightening the need for reliable mobile connectivity.

The Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts said, “Improved mobile connectivity makes it possible for Australians to stay connected, access education services, conduct business and remain in contact with family and friends. These activities are critical year-round, but particularly important with people responding to the COVID-19 crisis and spending more time at home.

“I thank Telstra, Optus and Vodafone for their work in getting us to this point, and importantly, for their ongoing commitment to the program.”

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