The peri-urban mobile program is an initiative to improve mobile and reception issues in fringes of large cities and to help communities in bushfire-prone areas to have better reception.
The initiative will be aided by $20 million (US$13.5 million) of government funds.
Australian Local Government Association President Linda Scott reinforced the dangers of the bushfire season, particularly in communities at risk, and the extra funding that might be needed
“We’re doing everything we can to prevent what looks to be a very dangerous bushfire season, and we can take nothing for granted,” she told AAP.
“We feel prepared as one can be, but we’re not complacent.”
The peri-urban program is part of the Mobile Black Spot Program, which aims to provide more areas with access to telecommunications.
Ms. Scott also touched on the importance of black spot funding during the bushfire season.
“Black spot funding is a critical part of the emergency solution that is needed to prepare Australia for what looks to be a dangerous summer,” she said.
“We do continue to hear that especially during bushfires, it is a big risk to communities where there are telecommunication black spots.”
City of Greater Geelong Acting Executive Director Tennille Bradley weighed in on the importance of the peri-urban initiative.
“Mobile connectivity empowers communities, enabling seamless communication, connecting people with friend, facilitating work and enhancing overall living experiences,” she said.
“We are committed to equitable coverage across the city.”
The Peri-urban second phase noticeboard already has two proposals, one for semi rural suburbs in New South Wales such as Dural and Annandale, which have reception service and quality problems. The other is for the rural Victorian suburb of Invermay which has zero mobile service in some areas.
