The Royalties for Regions funded project aims to improve mobile communications coverage in notorious black spots across the state.

 

“Under the project, Telstra will invest around $106million to deploy new mobile communications infrastructure at 113 sites along major roads and highways across the State and in several regional communities,” he said.

 

“This will increase mobile phone coverage in the State by up to 22 per cent while significantly boosting access to next generation broadband services.

 

Mr Holt was confident the RCMP would enhance the safety and convenience for people living, working and holidaying in the South of the State.

 

“The contribution of $39.2 million in Royalties for Regions funding is a significant investment towards improving mobile telecommunication coverage and services that support sustained regional development across the State. It also builds on the $94.5 million already invested through the Community Safety Network,” Mr Holt said.

 

“The Regional Mobile Communications Project will not only benefit individuals and businesses, it will have a huge impact on the delivery of State Government and emergency services, especially in communities prone to bushfire and road trauma. 

 

“Public safety in the regions will be boosted with enhanced emergency radio and mobile telecommunication coverage, which is a great outcome for regional WA.

 

“For example, fire-fighters and emergency medical services can use wireless broadband to download vital information while out in the field and will be able to remotely access and transmit information in real time.”

 

The roll-out of the 113 sites will take approximately 3 years, commencing in January 2012.

 

A roll-out schedule will be released once land access arrangements have been secured for all of the 113 sites.