The Albanese Government is improving broadband connectivity for households and businesses across Western Australia’s Central Wheatbelt region through the Regional Connectivity Program (RCP).
The fixed wireless upgrades – which provide access to fast, reliable broadband – were delivered through a $2,161,200 Commonwealth investment, with co-funding from the Western Australian Government and WA telecommunications provider CRISP Wireless Pty Ltd.
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 in regional Australia.
The RCP is part of the Better 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 project was delivered under Round 2 of the RCP funding which provided $137.2 million for 93 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: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/better-connectivity-plan-regional-and-rural-australia
As stated by Federal Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland:
“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 regional towns and communities acrossWestern Australia’s Central Wheatbelt region.
“Communities 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 Western Australian Regional Development Minister, Don Punch:
“This project will make a meaningful difference to communities and businesses across the Central Wheatbelt region of Western Australia.
“These significant upgrades connect the Central, Eastern and Southern parts of the Central Wheatbelt region, delivering improved connectivity and access to fast, reliable broadband services.
“The RCP program complements the WA Government’s investment in the region through the Digital Farm Grants Program, which is delivering fast, reliable, affordable and scalable broadband outside the fixed line and fixed wireless NBN.”
As stated by Senator Glenn Sterle, Senator for Western Australia:
“This significant project will make a meaningful difference to communities and towns across the Central Wheatbelt region, delivering improved connectivity and improved access to essential digital services and e-commerce opportunities.
“I look forward to seeing the positive flow-on effects this project has on the entire region and beyond.
“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.”
