The Federal Government will deliver up to $140,000 to upgrade the existing Telstra mobile tower at Yarramalong.
Delivered under the Mobile Networking Hardening Program, the grant will be used to improve mobile network resilience in the area against power outages, including during natural disasters.
It will contribute towards the costs of deploying a permanent, on-site generator, ensuring continuity of Telstra mobile services to the local community for a minimum of 24 hours in the event of a mains power outage, supporting public safety communications and access to essential digital services.
Member for Dobell Emma McBride said reliable and resilient telecommunications infrastructure was critical for the safety of Central Coast communities.
“Upgrades to the Yarramalong tower will help to keep locals safer, better connected and informed during times of crisis and natural disasters, which are on the rise,” she said.
“The launch of this grants process demonstrates how the Government is delivering improved, targeted communications infrastructure on the ground, particularly in regional Australia.”
Telstra will be called on to submit a proposal to upgrade the base station in line with guidelines released on November 1.
Funding will be awarded if the proposal complies with the guidelines and is assessed as achieving value for money by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.
The final outcome is expected to be announced towards the end of the year.
To access the guidelines, visit: www.infrastucture.gov.au/mnhp
Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland said staying connected during a natural disaster could be the difference between life and death – whether that be contacting emergency services, receiving the latest information, or checking-in with friends and family.
“While no communications network can ever be 100 per cent resilient, the Government is determined to do what we can to keep telco infrastructure up and running during disasters,” she said.
“In releasing these guidelines, our Government has taken the next step to deliver on its election commitment to the people of Yarramalong to keep them safe and connected during emergencies.”
Source:
Federal Government