May 24, 2016
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says he will work to make sure Gippsland gets a fair share of today’s announcement of an additional $60 million to boost the Coalition’s mobile phone black spots programme.
Mr Chester said the announcement by the Prime Minister and Minister for Regional Communications took the Coalition’s commitment up to $220 million since coming into government since 2013.
“I have already delivered funding for mobile phone black spots since the Coalition won government in 2013, and today’s funding announcement will ensure we can do more,” Mr Chester said.
“I’ll be working to ensure Gippsland gets its fair share of the funding, while continuing to work in partnership with other levels of government and telecommunication providers on mobile phone upgrades of the most benefit to our region.
“Reducing mobile phone drop outs is important for regional areas. All Gippslanders rely on mobile phone coverage for business and social connections, and it is also important for tourism regions in Gippsland that attract large numbers of visitors during the peak holiday periods.
“Safety is a critical consideration of the mobile phone black spots program.
“This is another example of The Nationals delivering within the Coalition Government for regional Australians.”
Upgraded mobile phone coverage is being rolled out to Benambra, Austins Hill near Boolarra, Butchers Ridge near Gelantipy, Gormandale, Bonang, Buchan South, Carrajung Lower, Glen Valley, Sarsfield and Tongio.
CAPTION: The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says the Coalition has announced an additional $60 million to fix mobile phone black spots in regional areas, bringing the total investment to $220 million since 2013.
