THE HON MICHELLE ROWLAND

MINISTER FOR COMMUNICATIONS

THE HON STEPHEN JONES MP

ASSISTANT TREASURER

MINISTER FOR FINANCIAL SERVICES

MEMBER FOR WHITLAM

MEDIA RELEASE

Mobile coverage in Calderwood is being upgraded, thanks to the Albanese Government’s Peri-Urban Mobile Program (Round 2).

The Government has awarded $40.9 million in funding to mobile carriers and tower companies for 47 projects across Australia that will deliver new or upgraded mobile phone infrastructure that targets longstanding mobile coverage and reception issues in our area.

The peri-urban fringe is where the bush meets the suburbs, creating natural disaster risks for those living and working there. These areas have been historically underserved because of the high cost of deploying infrastructure, difficult terrain, planning challenges and lower population densities.

Natural disasters across Australia have highlighted the need for more reliable mobile services during emergencies, which the Government is committed to delivering.

The projects were recommended by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts following a competitive, merit-based process.

The PUMP complements other Government initiatives to improve telecommunications services across Australia, through its $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.

For more information on PUMP Round 2, including a list of funded solutions, visit infrastructure.gov.au/pump.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland:

“The Government is committed to reducing the impact of natural disasters on communities and these projects are a continuation of that commitment. Better connectivity will allow communities to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters sooner.

"We’re pleased to support these projects, which will help to ensure the Illawarra can stay in touch and receive information when they need it most.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Whitlam Stephen Jones:

“This is great news for people in Calderwood. This means more reliable connectivity and mobile coverage for emergency services and families who need to keep connected with loved ones.

“I know there are still some parts of the region that may have mobile coverage and reception issues. We will continue to work with the community to identify these gaps and make improvements.”

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