$20 Million Boost for Mobile Coverage in Urban Fringes

GEELONG will benefit from a $20 million Commonwealth investment aimed at enhancing mobile coverage.

The second round of the Peri-Urban Mobile Program (PUMP) is now inviting applications.

This round of PUMP offers grants to Mobile Network Operators (MNO) and Infrastructure Providers, focusing on improving mobile phone infrastructure in areas plagued by longstanding coverage and reception issues.

The initiative promotes infrastructure sharing to maximise the benefits for communities.

The eligibility scope for this round has broadened, encompassing major regional cities like Geelong, the Gold Coast, and Newcastle, as well as the outskirts of major capitals.

Acting Executive Director Customer, Community and Economy Tennille Bradley said the City was pleased to see Greater Geelong included in round two of the program.

“Mobile connectivity is increasingly important to the way we all live and, while coverage across our region is generally good, certain areas have coverage gaps.

“Additionally, other parts of the region face capacity issues, particularly during times of high visitation and due to population growth.

“There is healthy interest in the Geelong area from telecommunication providers and we continually work with these companies to identify sites and in some instances provide lease agreements.

“We hope round two of this federal program will encourage further interest from providers and ultimately help increase mobile connectivity and capacity in the region.

“The City of Greater Geelong participated in the federal parliamentary committee inquiry into regional mobile phone coverage and we are committed to equitable coverage across our municipality. ”

The peri-urban fringe, a zone where urban areas meet the bush, presents unique challenges such as bushfire risks, infrastructure costs, terrain difficulties, planning complexities, and lower population densities.

To address these challenges, a Project Noticeboard has been set up to assist local councils and community groups in pinpointing coverage and service quality issues, aiding telcos in developing new infrastructure proposals.

Communications Minister, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP said having access to reliable coverage is an essential part of modern life.

“That’s why the Albanese Government is committed to improving mobile coverage across Australia, including along our peri-urban fringes to ensure local communities can stay in touch and receive information when they need it most.

“I encourage telcos, communities and other interested parties to work together to submit applications that will deliver new or improved mobile coverage in these areas”.