Melbourne's fringe to benefit from better mobile connectivity

The Australian and Victorian Governments will improve mobile connectivity for 20 locations across the fringes of Greater Melbourne through the Australian Government’s Peri-Urban Mobile Program (PUMP).

PUMP provides funding to improve mobile connectivity in bushfire priority areas along the edges of Australia’s major cities to improve connectivity and safety.

A joint $16.2 million contribution from the Australian and Victorian Governments has been awarded to successful mobile network operators and infrastructure providers in Victoria including Werribee, Melton, Whittlesea, Craigieburn, Nillumbik Shire, the Macedon and Yarra Ranges, Cardinia, Casey and the Mornington Peninsula.

The improvements will ensure local communities have access to life-saving information during emergencies, improve connectivity when help is needed, and keep people in touch with loved ones.

This investment in upgrades will deliver better mobile services where they are needed most, helping businesses and residents in Melbourne’s peri-urban areas to grow.

PUMP complements the highly successful Mobile Black Spot Program (MBSP), which improves mobile coverage across regional and remote Australia. To date, 1270 mobile base stations have been funded, including over 200 in Victoria.

Further information on PUMP, including a list of sites to receive a mobile base station, is available at www.infrastructure.gov.au/peri-urban-mobile-program.

 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:

“Reliable mobile service can be the difference between life and death during emergencies.

"The Australian Government is committed to improving emergency communications and mobile connectivity right across Australia, and welcome this united commitment with the Victorian Government."

Quotes attributable to Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy, the Hon Jaala Pulford MP

 

“Partnerships like this are vital to those living and working in Melbourne’s growing suburbs – mobile connectivity when people need it most is essential.”

 

“As well as supporting people during emergencies this improved coverage will help local families by connecting them to community, education and work.”



Quotes attributable to Member for Holt, Cassandra Fernando MP



“I’m proud the Albanese Labor Government is focused on delivering better communication infrastructure for our community.”



FRIDAY, 22 JULY 2022