Next round of Mobile Black Spot Program now open

November 24, 2020

Maranoa MP David Littleproud is encouraging local communities and councils in Maranoa to nominate mobile black spots in their area, with Round 5A of the $380 million Mobile Black Spot Program now open for applications.

“Breaks in our communications hinder emergency services, tourism and business – that’s why this program is so important for Maranoa and why I’ve been advocating so hard on this issue,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Improved coverage in the bush will give locals more choices in how they live their lives and conduct their business, and importantly it will allow peace of mind for locals and travellers to stay in touch with loved ones and call for help in an emergency.

“This new round will have a specific focus on improving mobile coverage along major regional and remote transport corridors and in disaster-prone regions.

“Improving coverage in natural disaster-prone areas is critical for keeping people connected during times of emergency, whether it’s to loved ones, or emergency services.

“I encourage local communities and councils in Maranoa to identify their priorities for improved coverage, and work with mobile network operators and infrastructure providers in support of applications for funding for those areas.”

The Mobile Black Spot program supports the Australian Government’s continuing commitment to expanding mobile coverage in regional and remote Australia. The first five rounds of the program have funded over 1,200 new base stations in regional Australia, with more that 880 of these already switched on.

Applications for Round 5A opened on 18 November 2020 and will close on 10 February 2020.  For more information about the Mobile Black Spot Program and the Round 5A process, visit: www.communications.gov.au/MBSP