The Hon Anika Wells MP
Minister for Communications
Minister for Sport
The Hon Kristy McBain MP
Member for Eden-Monaro
JOINT MEDIA RELEASE
The Albanese Government is dialling up mobile coverage in Cooma thanks to a new project being funded under the latest round of the Mobile Black Spot Program (MBSP).
Eden-Monaro will receive a major boost, with grant funding being provided for a new mobile base station in Cooma, which will deliver 4G and 5G mobile coverage to the area.
The mobile base station is one of 17 new base stations the Albanese Government is supporting as part of its investment under Round 8 of the MBSP, boosting mobile coverage to more than 7,000 homes and businesses across the country.
Each site will include back-up power, with some also incorporating additional hardening measures to reinforce mobile telecommunications infrastructure.
The MBSP is one of the largest ever mobile coverage expansions in regional and remote Australia, helping communities be more connected than ever across the country.
Funding for recent rounds of the MBSP are part of the Albanese Government’s $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.
The MBSP complements the Government’s broader work to improve mobile coverage for regional communities, including its commitment to legislate a Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation.
For more information visit Mobile Black Spot Program | Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications Anika Wells:
“It is essential all Australians have access to reliable, resilient mobile services before, during and after emergencies.
“The Albanese Government is providing investment to 17 communities across Australia so they can access help and keep in touch with loved ones when they need it most.
“Reliable connectivity is essential for safety, economic opportunity and quality of life. Through the Mobile Black Spot Program, the Albanese Government is ensuring no community is left behind.
Quotes attributable to Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain:
“This investment will mean better mobile coverage for Cooma, helping to improve safety, productivity and connectivity.
“This is so important for people living in the region and those travelling through because improving coverage means better outcomes.
“Upgrades like this are not only important to locals and visitors, but crucial for our emergency services during emergencies. Because better connectivity is not just a nice to have, it’s a necessity.”
