LOCAL Federal MP Pat Conaghan says the Millbank community near Hickeys Creek will benefit from new and improved mobile coverage under Round 5A of the Commonwealth's Mobile Black Spot Program.
Mr Conaghan said the installation of a 'small cell' would benefit the local community in times of critical need, such as bushfires. Small cells are radio transmitters for mobile phone services. Telcos install them on structures such as light poles, bus shelters and the sides of buildings.
Telstra applied for the small cell as part of the Government program.
"Millbank was particularly hard-hit during the Black Summer bushfires," Mr Conaghan said.
"I am pleased to see that this community will now have better mobile phone coverage, particularly at critical times.
"A key priority of Round 5A is to test new approaches to supporting improved mobile coverage. This Government encourages mobile network operators to deploy shared mobile infrastructure to reduce cost and provide new coverage from more than one carrier."
Mr Conaghan said access to 21st century communications was an essential service for all residents, no matter where they live.
The full list of base stations funded under Round 5A of the MBSP is available on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications website.
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