Communities across the Limestone Coast will receive better mobile coverage as part of a project to build 27 new mobile sites through the Albanese Government's Regional Connectivity Program.
The Commonwealth will contribute over $15 million to fund the sites to improve coverage and data across the region, along with contributions from the South Australian Government, Telstra and local governments.
RCP Round 3 is awarding $115.23 million for 74 connectivity projects across Australia, through three separate funding streams:
- $7.1 million for 7 projects that target First Nations communities in Central Australia;
- $16. million for 6 projects that target First Nations communities across the rest of Australia; and
- $91.7 million for 61 projects targeting connectivity across Australia including 12 projects in First Nations communities, valued at $17.6 million.
This funding was delivered as part of the Albanese Government's $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan. Other South Australian projects receiving a Federal Government funding boost as part of the plan are NBN Fixed Wireless upgrades in Coober Pedy ($990,000) and Lock, Eyre Peninsula ($1.3 million).
The Plan commits $400 million to expand mobile coverage and improve communications resilience, and $200 million to fund place-based communications solutions through the RCP.
Full lists of funded projects under RCP Round 3 and MBSP Round 7 are available at www.infrastructure.gov.au/rcp and www.infrastructure.gov.au/mbsp.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP
"It doesn't matter where you live, access to reliable mobile coverage and connectivity is essential in 2023.
"That's why the Albanese Government is investing $1.1 billion to narrow the digital divide as part of the most significant investment in regional communications since the creation of the National Broadband Network.
"This project will go a long way to supporting communities across the Limestone Coast access the mobile and data services they need."
Quotes attributable to the Premier of South Australia, the Hon Peter Malinauskas:
"This funding for the Limestone Coast is an historic investment in South Australia's regional mobile phone coverage from Labor Federal and State Governments.
"It is a testament to what can be achieved when working together - with funding also coming directly from local government and industry to make this project a reality.
"This is, in no small part, thanks to the fierce advocacy of local Independent MPs Nick McBride and Troy Bell, along with Minister Clare Scriven.
"We welcome the Federal Government's investment in all three mobile connectivity projects across South Australia."
Quotes attributable to Senator for South Australia, Senator the Hon Don Farrell:
"This major new investment in South Australia will ensure locals across the Limestone Coast can stay connected.
"Reliable communication is vital for residents and small businesses, and these projects will go a long way to improving local communication services.
"That's why I'm proud to be part of an Albanese Government that's delivering for South Australians."
Quotes attributable to South Australian Regional Development Minister, the Hon Clare Scriven:
"I'm delighted that this unique collaboration between Federal, State and local governments, as well as industry has resulted in this fantastic outcome for the Limestone Coast.
"Connectivity is essential for the growth of businesses, education, training and community well being - this is an excellent outcome for our region."
Quotes attributable to Independent Member for MacKillop, Nick McBride MP:
"This exciting news is a major coup for our region and a result of collaboration between community, industry, and all three tiers of Government. This is a game changer for connectivity for our local businesses, tourism and families - connecting us all on a greater level than ever experienced before."
Quotes attributable to Independent Member for Mount Gambier, Troy Bell MP:
"This funding is the final puzzle piece in a massive project that was diligently brought together by local business, industry and government. It will connect our community in a way that will be life-changing for the people of the Limestone Coast."
