RURAL COMMUNITIES SET FOR INTERNET AND PHONE SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS

Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack has welcomed $4,879,877 in funding under Round 3 of the Regional Connectivity Program for three projects in the Riverina and Central West to upgrade and develop new telecommunications infrastructure.

 “Phone and internet services are a vital part of modern-day life,” Mr McCormack said.

 “It’s important to ensure communities in regional, rural and remote Australia aren’t left behind the big cities when it comes to connectivity.

 “Not just because you can more easily stream videos or run a business, but because the tyranny of distance makes connectivity crucial whenever there’s an emergency.

 “When I was approached to lend my support for the grant applications of some of these projects, I was more than happy to support them because I knew what a difference these improved services could make.”

 Telstra, Connected Farms and Wi-Sky NSW all received funding for projects in the Riverina and Central West under the program.

 “With the funding, Telstra will deliver two new mobile phone stations to improve mobile coverage and capacity to Cowabbie, Ariah Park and the surrounding areas,” Mr McCormack said.

 “Connected Farms will be using its funding to deliver fixed wireless and mobile broadband to the agricultural areas of Weddin Shire.

 “Whilst Riverina based Wi-Sky NSW received funding to increase backhaul capacity which will increase speeds across its network in Southern NSW.”

 The Regional Connectivity Program was introduced under the former Liberal and Nationals Government and has generated approximately $489 million (GST exclusive) in investment for 297 telecommunications projects across regional, rural and remote Australia.