Locals and visitors to Queensland’s Central Highlands are benefiting from improved mobile coverage, thanks to the Albanese Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program (MBSP).

The new small cell base station provides new and improved 4G mobile coverage to the area of Lochington which previously experienced limited Telstra coverage.

In addition to improved mobile and data connectivity, the project enhances public safety communications during emergencies and natural disasters.

The mobile base station was funded by the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Telstra under Round 5 of the MBSP.

The new base station is one of more than 1500 delivered under the MBSP, which has generated a combined investment of more than $1 billion.

In addition to Commonwealth funding, this figure includes co-contributions from State, Territory and Local Governments, mobile industry providers and third parties.

New rounds of the MBSP are being delivered as part of the Government’s $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.

The plan includes funding to boost mobile coverage and resilience, and conduct an independent audit to better identify mobile blackspots and target investment.

For more information on the Better Connectivity Plan, visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/bcp

For information on the Mobile Black Spot Program, visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/mbsp

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:

 “Reliable mobile coverage is absolutely essential. The Albanese Government is delivering improved connectivity for Australians living, working and travelling in communities like Lochington.

 “This new mobile base station – one of more than 1,150 projects delivered through the Mobile Black Spot Program to date – is supporting enhanced connectivity and community safety.”

Quotes attributable to Senator the Hon Anthony Chisholm:

“Improving connectivity in regions, like the Central Highlands, is a topic that comes up often when I meet with people living and working in regional Queensland.

 “Farms and other small businesses want to increase their capacity by making it easier to utilise the telelecommunications services that will help them meet growing demand.

 “The Albanese Government will continue to work with communities and industry to ensure local residents can access the mobile coverage they need and deserve.”