Scenic Tasmanian hiking spot Tylers Hill is now better connected thanks to the Albanese Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program.

A new Optus mobile base station is now operating in the area, providing improved 4G and 5G mobile services to the surrounding area and nearby sections of the Huon Highway.

Located in the state forest alongside the Tylers Hill fire tower, the new base station will boost public safety and provide better connectivity and access to emergency services for visitors enjoying the beautiful hiking trails in the area, as well as motorists travelling through the area. 

The project was co-funded by the Albanese Government and Optus under Round 5 of the Mobile Black Spot Program. It’s one of four Optus base stations completed under the program in the past year, along with Lake Kepwari and North Kellerberrin in Western Australia and Yarrabah South in Far North Queensland.

The Mobile Black Spot Program is one of the largest ever mobile coverage expansions in regional and remote Australia, helping communities be safer and more connected than ever across the country.

Up to 1,400 new mobile base stations will be delivered Australia-wide under Rounds 1 to 7 of the program, which have generated a combined investment of more than $1 billion.

Funding for recent rounds of the program are part of the Government’s $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications Anika Wells:

“The Albanese Government is investing significantly in communications infrastructure so that when it comes to connectivity, no one is left behind.

“This new base station will boost connectivity for visitors to this beautiful part of Tasmania and improve access to emergency services in the event of a natural disaster such as a bushfire or severe storm.

“The Mobile Black Spot Program is an important way we’re delivering for regional Australia – keeping communities and visitors safer and more connected, no matter their location.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Franklin Julie Collins: 

“We know just how important access to reliable mobile coverage is to our local communities, no matter where they live.

“This government is investing strongly in the regions, delivering resilient communications infrastructure to help boost coverage and connect our communities across the country.”