The Albanese Government has delivered fast, reliable broadband to the remote town of Halls Creek in Western Australia’s Kimberley region (WA), through the Regional Connectivity Program (RCP).
Around 535 homes and businesses can now access fixed fibre internet following the completion of upgrades from satellite, made possible with a $1,775,341 Federal Government investment and co-funding from NBN Co and the WA Government which has matched the Commonwealth’s investment.
The upgrades support access to essential digital services, including healthcare, education, skills and training, and enhanced business and e-commerce, and demonstrate the Albanese Government’s commitment to bridge the digital divide, particularly for First Nations communities.
The RCP is part of theBetter Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, providing $656 million to improve mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience in rural, regional and remote communities.
The Halls Creek upgrade is delivered under Round 1 of the RCP funding which provided $115.8 million for 129 projects Australia-wide. A further $200 million has been allocated for additional RCP rounds.
For more information on the Regional Connectivity Program, visit:www.infrastructure.gov.au/rcp
For more information on the Better Connectivity Plan, visit:www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/better-connectivity-plan-regional-and-rural-australia
As stated by Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
“Every Australian deserves access to fast, reliable broadband, regardless of postcode or circumstance.
“The Albanese Government is delivering on its commitment to narrow the digital divide, with a focus on rural, regional and remote communities just like Halls Creek.
“The entire community will benefit from fast, reliable broadband. I look forward to seeing these benefits replicated across the country as we deliver our Better Connectivity Plan”.
As stated by Senator Glenn Sterle, Senator for Western Australia:
“This project will make a meaningful difference to the community of Halls Creek.
“This significant upgrade means improved connectivity and access to essential services and digital opportunities. I look forward to seeing the positive flow-on effects this has on the community and the entire region”.
Quotes As put by Western Australian Regional Development Minister, the Hon Don Punch MLA:
“I am pleased to see our connectivity funding commitment hit the ground in Halls Creek, whichwill see the whole community benefit from improvedbroadband connectivity.
“Bridging the digital divide is key toimprovinglivability for people in the Kimberley and driving growth opportunities for regional businesses.
“The RCP program is a great example of Commonwealth-State collaboration, working with telecommunications providers to overcome the tyranny of distance to deliver fast, reliable and affordable broadband and mobile services across our regions”.
As stated byMember for Kimberley Divina D’Anna MLA:
“I am pleased that Halls Creek will benefit from better broadband connectivity, following the infrastructure upgrades completed under this joint initiative.
“Keeping our communities in the Kimberley connected is vital, to ensure local businesses remain competitive and residents have better access to essential services such as telehealth, education and government services.”
