Applications are now open for Round 5A of the Federal Government’s Mobile Black Spots program.
Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said Round 5A will have a specific focus on improving mobile coverage along major transport corridors and in disaster-prone regions.
“Improving coverage in natural disaster-prone areas is critical for keeping people connected during times of emergency,” he said. “This focus follows the release of the Regional Telecommunications Review which reflected the views of hundreds consulted through that process.
“The new round will capitalise on unspent amounts from Round 5.
“Round 5A will support new ways of delivering mobile services to locations that have traditionally been less economic for mobile network operators.
“To date the program has co-funded 49 mobile stations across Grey. It’s made a remarkable difference.”
Mr Ramsey encourages local communities and councils in the Grey electorate to identify their priorities for improved coverage, to contact and work with the mobile network and infrastructure providers in support of applications for funding for those areas.
Applications for Round 5A opened on 18 November 2020 and will close on 10 February 2020. For more information about the Mobile Black Spot Program and the Round 5A process, visit: communications.gov.au/MBSP.
“With support from both the Federal and State Governments, the last round of the Mobile Black Spots Program delivered 10 sites valued at $2.6 million across Grey, with the Federal Government providing $1.2 million of that amount,” Mr Ramsey said.
“Improved mobile coverage helps family and friends connect, access quality education and health services, do business globally and increasingly with tourists reluctant to venture into areas without coverage, extending the network in these areas will be a huge bonus to the tourist industry.
Mr Ramsey said he and his regional colleagues will continue to advocate for Mobile Black Spots across Australia.
“The $80 million Round 6 of the program will commence after Round 5A. Round 6 will build on lessons learnt from Round 5A and earlier rounds of the program,” he said.
Media Contact: Leonie Lloyd-Smith (02) 62774967
