Communities living and working around Teesdale can now look forward to new and improved telecommunications services with a $2.7 million technology boost funded through the Morrison McCormack Government Regional Connectivity Program (RCP), set to start in coming weeks.
Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson announced the major upgrade to NBN access technology in Teesdale will provide residents faster, more affordable and reliable connectivity by upgrading services from Fixed Wireless to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).
“I’m thrilled to announce improved broadband services is soon to be a reality for residents in this region,” Senator Henderson said.
“The recent pandemic has shown us just how vital staying connected is, for our health, work and study and remaining in contact with loved ones and this targeted uplift to connectivity will give local residents access to better high-speed, reliable broadband and mobile services.
“Residents inside Teesdale will be upgraded to FTTP which takes them off the fixed wireless tower, freeing up additional capacity for those residents living outside the town who will remain on the fixed wireless network which is a solid win for the community.”
Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said that the RCP is part of the Coalition Government’s ongoing commitment to bring the digital economy to the regions, complementing the National Broadband Network and the Mobile Black Spot Program.
“The Regional Connectivity Program is providing targeted upgrades to connectivity in regional areas that need it the most, ensuring that more Australians can access high-speed, reliable broadband and mobile services,” Minister Fletcher said.
Federal Regional Communications Minister, Mark Coulton said the Government is listening to the digital needs of regional communities and businesses and has used the RCP to design and deliver place-based solutions that solve rural connectivity issues.
“The Government has taken a collaborative approach in delivering the RCP and has engaged with the telecommunications industry and regional communities to make sure the funded projects are tailored to the needs and priorities of each region and are supported by the local community,” Minister Coulton said.
The Federal Government is contributing $90.3 million to the RCP, generating total new investment of more than $180 million through co-contributions from funding recipients, state and territory governments and other third parties, such as local governments, regional businesses and community development organisations.
The delivery of all successful projects under the program will start in coming weeks with projects expected to be completed by June 2022.