Melbourne’s fringe to benefit from better mobile connectivity

Dept of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications

The Australian and Victorian Governments will improve mobile connectivity for 20 locations across the fringes of Greater Melbourne through the Australian Government’s Peri-Urban Mobile Program (PUMP).

PUMP provides funding to improve mobile connectivity in bushfire priority areas along the edges of Australia’s major cities to improve connectivity and safety.

A joint $16.2 million contribution from the Australian and Victorian Governments has been awarded to successful mobile network operators and infrastructure providers in Victoria including Werribee, Melton, Whittlesea, Craigieburn, Nillumbik Shire, the Macedon and Yarra Ranges, Cardinia, Casey and the Mornington Peninsula.

The improvements will ensure local communities have access to life-saving information during emergencies, improve connectivity when help is needed, and keep people in touch with loved ones.

This investment in upgrades will deliver better mobile services where they are needed most, helping businesses and residents in Melbourne’s peri-urban areas to grow.

PUMP complements the highly successful Mobile Black Spot Program (MBSP), which improves mobile coverage across regional and remote Australia. To date, 1270 mobile base stations have been funded, including over 200 in Victoria.

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