Five remote areas in East Gippsland will receive improved mobile phone coverage thanks to Federal Government funding.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said Anglers Rest, Goongerah and W Tree Creek will all have a small cell installed, while Pheasant Hill and Monaro Highway (near the Buladah Road Monaro Highway intersection) would receive a macro cell installation.
“The small and macro cells will primarily target areas with poor coverage,” Mr Chester said.
“The installation of these cells will enable better mobile coverage and capacity to be delivered in some of our smaller and more remote high-risk bushfire communities.”
Mr Chester said improved connectivity was critical for social and economic reasons in the region.
“For locals and visitors, better mobile phone connections will mean it is easier to stay in touch and do business in our region,” Mr Chester said.
“But more importantly in emergency situations, like a car crash or bushfire, improved mobile phone coverage will help to save lives.
“Households are becoming more and more reliant on accessing their mobile phone for everyday jobs, especially during lockdown with more people working from home.
“Having mobile phone access is increasingly important and I continue to work with my Parliamentary colleagues and telecommunications companies to see further investment to reduce blackspots.”
