Locals and visitors to the Goldfields-Esperance region in Western Australia are benefiting from improved mobile coverage, thanks to the Albanese Government's Mobile Black Spot Program (MBSP).
The new macro cell base station provides new and improved 4G mobile coverage to the area of North Cascade, north-west of Esperance, which previously experienced limited Telstra coverage.
In addition to improved mobile and data connectivity, the project enhances public safety communications during emergencies and natural disasters.
The mobile base station was funded by the Australian Government, Telstra and a $235,000 contribution from the Western Australian Government under Round 5A of the MBSP.
The new base station is one of more than 1,500 delivered under the MBSP, which has generated a combined investment of more than $1 billion.
In addition to Commonwealth funding, this figure includes co-contributions from state, territory and local governments, mobile industry providers and 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 Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
"Reliable mobile coverage is absolutely essential. The Albanese Government is delivering improved connectivity for Australians living, working and travelling in communities like North Cascade.
"This new mobile base station - one of more than 1,150 projects delivered through the Mobile Black Spot Program to date - is supporting enhanced connectivity and community safety."
As stated by Western Australia Minister for Regional Development, the Hon Don Punch MLA:
"This new infrastructure will deliver better mobile connectivity for residents, local businesses and visitors to the Esperance region of WA.
"The Mobile Black Spot Program is a great example of Commonwealth-State collaboration to improve digital connectivity, and boost business capacity in regional and remote communities.
"Since 2017, the WA Labor Government has committed $154 million to complement Commonwealth and industry investments in our State's telecommunications infrastructure and will continue to work with the Commonwealth to bridge the 'digital divide' in regional WA."
As stated by Senator Varun Ghosh, Senator for Western Australia:
"I am proud to be part of the Albanese Government which is delivering for locals and visitors to the picturesque Goldfields-Esperance region.
"The Albanese Government will continue to work with communities and industry to ensure local residents can access the improved mobile coverage they need and deserve."
