FEDERAL Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch says time is running out for people with limited or no mobile phone coverage to nominate specific locations for Round 2 of the Federal Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program.
“Round 1 of the program was a resounding success and saw a commitment of $100 million by the Federal Government help deliver nearly 500 new and upgraded mobile phone base stations across Australia,” said Mr Entsch.
“Here in Far North Queensland, three base stations were built or upgraded at Coen Airport, Darnley Island and Speewah – giving new or additional coverage to dozens of locations around our region.”
A further $60 million has been committed for Round 2 to offer even more opportunities for improving mobile phone coverage, but Mr Entsch says locals need to nominate their black spots soon.
“If you have a specific location that needs mobile phone coverage, you have until early January to make a submission. You can do that by emailing me at warren.entsch.mp@aph.gov.au and providing as much detail as possible about the exact geographic location of the black spot and the reasons why it is a high priority,” said Mr Entsch.
Once submissions have closed in January, a competitive selection process for Round 2 funding will take place, and then funding will be made available over two years from 1 July 2016.
