Federal funding secured

The Federal Government has announced $15 million to boost mobile phone coverage in the Limestone Coast – adding to funding already committed by the South Australian Government.

The State Government put $5.5 million on the table for Telstra’s Regional Connectivity Proposal, helping leverage the $15 million in federal funds meaning the project now has investment from all three tiers of government, and local industry.

Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell welcomed the federal investment.

“This funding is the final puzzle piece in a massive project that was diligently brought together by local business, industry and government,” Mr Bell said.

“It will connect our community in a way that will be life-changing for the people of the Limestone Coast.”

The historic investment brings the total Federal and State Government funding to $20.5 million to install 27 new mobile base stations across, adding around 2,400 square kilometres of new 4G coverage.

The new towers will increase mobile coverage, wireless broadband, and data-sharing capabilities. Vitally, it will also provide additional Triple Zero connectivity for users of other networks in emergency situations.

Member for Mackillop Nick McBride was also thrilled the funding had been secured.

“This exciting news is a major coup for our region and a result of collaboration between community, industry, and all three tiers of Government,” he said.

“This is a game changer for connectivity for our local businesses, tourism and families – connecting us all on a greater level than ever experienced before.”

The investment will enable more efficient communication and monitoring in the forestry, dairy, agricultural, winery, and wool industries, provide better services to tourists, and improve access to health services.

The project was developed in consultation with local councils, the South Australian Forest Products Association, Primary Producers SA, Grain Producers SA, the South East Professional Fisherman’s Association, RDA Limestone Coast, and the SA Country Fire Service.

South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas described the funding as historic.

“It is a testament to what can be achieved when working together – with funding also coming directly from local government and industry to make this project a reality,” he said.

“This is, in no small part, thanks to the fierce advocacy of local Independent MPs Nick McBride and Troy Bell, along with Minister Clare Scriven.”

The Federal Government’s contribution was being delivered through the Regional Connectivity Program.