Locals and visitors to the pristine EastWallabi Island at the Abrolhos in Western Australia are benefiting from improved mobile coverage, thanks to infrastructure delivered through the Albanese Government's Mobile Black Spot Program (MBSP).
The new small cell base station that went live in July 2024 provides new and improved 4G mobile coverage to the Wallabi Group islands, which previously experienced limited to no coverage.
In addition to improved mobile and data connectivity, the project enhances public safety communications during emergencies and natural disasters.
The project cost $242,000 and was jointly funded by the Commonwealth, the Western Australian Government and Telstra under Round 5 of the MBSP.
The new base station is one of more than 1,140 delivered under the MBSP, which has generated a combined investment of more than $1 billion - representing Commonwealth funding, and co-contributions from state, territory and local governments, mobile industry providers and other third parties.
New rounds of the MBSP are being delivered as part of the Government's $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.
The plan includes funding to boost mobile coverage and resilience, and conduct an independent audit to better identify mobile blackspots and target investment.
For more information on the Better Connectivity Plan, visit:www.infrastructure.gov.au/bcp
For information on the Mobile Black Spot Program, visit:www.infrastructure.gov.au/mbsp
As stated by the Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
"Reliable mobile coverage is absolutely essential. The Albanese Government is delivering improved connectivity for Australians working and travelling to remote places like the Abrolhos Islands."
"This new mobile base station - one of more than 1,140 projects delivered through the Mobile Black Spot Program to date - is supporting enhanced connectivity and safety."
As stated by Western Australia Minister for Regional Development, the Hon Don Punch MP:
"This new infrastructure at East Wallabi Island will deliver better mobile connectivity for visitors to this stunning area off the Geraldton coast.
"This vital mobile telecommunications improvement will help to make the Abrolhos Islands more accessible for tourists and ensure connectivity for local operators and businesses.
"The Mobile Black Spot Program is a great example of Commonwealth-State collaboration to improve digital connectivity, boost business capacity and help close the digital divide in regional and remote communities."
As stated by Senator for Western Australia, Glenn Sterle:
"Visitors flock to the Abrolhos Islands for fishing, bird watching, snorkelling and diving opportunities.
"I am proud to be part of the Albanese Government which is delivering for visitors and locals to these pristine islands off the coast of Geraldton.
"The Albanese Government will continue to work with industry and communities across Western Australia to ensure locals can access the improved mobile coverage they need and deserve."
