The Territory Labor Government's $28 million partnership with Telstra continues to bring better telecommunications to the bush.
The latest site to receive services under the Remote Telecommunications Co-investment Program (RTCP) is Cahills Crossing in Kakadu National Park, which now has a 4G mobile service.
Cahills Crossing on the East Alligator River is one of Australia's most famous causeways, attracting visitors from near and far due to the large numbers of estuarine crocodiles gathering around the Crossing.
Telstra and the Northern Territory Government have each committed $14 million over four years towards improved telecommunications infrastructure across the Territory.
Residents, businesses, tourists and Territorians on the road all benefit from the upgrades that provide modern infrastructure for mobile phones and broadband services.
Since 2009, Northern Territory Government remote telecommunications co-investment programs have delivered benefits to more than 40,000 Territorians across 144 locations, including 69 remote communities, 17 town camps and 13 roadside locations.
The $28 million RTCP with Telstra has provided mobile coverage at Laramba, Larrimah, Tilmouth Well, Top Springs Roadhouse, Wutunugurra and Yuelamu, and fixed line broadband and mobile services for Willowra.
This follows upgrades for mobiles and broadband services in Wurrumiyanga, Pirlangimpi and Milikapiti on the Tiwi Islands, completed in 2021. These communities now have service quality on par with Darwin.
Attributable to Minister for Corporate and Digital Development Selena Uibo:
"It's fantastic that locals and visitors using Telstra can now make and receive calls from Cahills Crossing, Willowra, Laramba, Wutunugurra, Yuelamu and more.
"The Territory Labor Government is committed to improving telecommunications in the bush. Modern digital connectivity is critical to the Territory economy, social development and and bridging the digital divide.
"The NT Government highly values its partnerships with Telstra, which are delivering infrastructure to connect more remote Territorians."
Attributable to Member for Arafura Manuel Brown:
"'I drove through Cahills Crossing on Wednesday and we had mobile service. This mobile service will help residents stay connected and assist with making the crossing safer.
"I'm proud the Territory Labor Government is committed to improving communication in the bush and is working hard to close the digital divide for Aboriginal Territorians."
Attributable to Telstra Regional General Manager Nic Danks:
"We continually investigate new opportunities to further expand our mobile coverage, including co-investment opportunities like the RTCP, which can deliver life changing connectivity, educational and economic benefits for so many."
Northern Territory Government
