Mallacoota residents and visitors will have better mobile and internet connections, with new mobile infrastructure to be built to help the region recover from the devastating 2019-20 bushfires.
The Victorian Government and Telstra are investing $2.2 million to improve 4G mobile capacity and resilience, which will help businesses, residents and visitors to Mallacoota.
Improved mobile capacity will help people to access safety information during bushfires and other emergencies when mobile networks are under extreme pressure.
The boost to mobile connectivity is a priority for the Mallacoota and District Recovery Association (MADRA) and features in their Disaster Recovery Plan.
With these upgrades, the mobile infrastructure will cope better with the increase in the area’s population each tourist season, leading to an improved experience for local businesses and for families holidaying in Mallacoota.
The Government has invested more than $658 million in bushfire recovery, including approximately $170 million released to residents, businesses and community organisations.
The Government will continue to invest in the state’s future by fast-tracking better mobile coverage and broadband through the $550 million Connecting Victoria program.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford
“It’s been heartbreaking to see Mallacoota hit by the 2019-20 bushfires and the coronavirus pandemic, so we’re pleased to be helping residents and businesses on their path to recovery.”
“These new mobile base stations will ensure locals and visitors are connected and protected during emergencies like bushfires and floods.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Jane Garrett
“This project will be a fantastic boost for businesses and residents in the region, who rely on having good internet and mobile connections to expand and grow.”
Quote attributable to a Telstra Regional Australia Executive Loretta Willaton
“Telstra’s mobile network played a critical role during the bushfires in Mallacoota, so we know just how important this upgrade will be to boost connectivity and further improve network capacity and resilience.”
Reviewed 25 August 2021