By Olivia Condous
The federal government has announced Melton will receive two new mobile base stations to improve connectivity in the western suburbs.
The two mobile sites are to be installed in Ravenhall, one will service Optus users and the other will be for TPG services.
The new sites are a part of the government Mobile Black Spot Program, which aims to improve mobile coverage in regional and remote areas across the country, with 1,000 already built.
A further $28.2 million was announced on April 22 to build 66 more mobile sites at various locations around Australia.
Victorian senator Sarah Henderson said reliable mobile phone coverage was critical infrastructure that Australian residents need.
“Fixing mobile coverage is key to ensuring people across regional Victoria not only remain safe, particularly in emergencies such as bushfires, but receive infrastructure which is on par with those who live in metropolitan cities,” she said.
Communications minister Paul Fletcher said the government is committed to improving mobile connectivity for people living in outer urban areas.
“Improving coverage on the urban fringe will help communities access vital information during emergencies, seek help if needed and stay in touch with loved ones,” Mr Fletcher said.
