- Regional Telecommunications Project improving mobile phone coverage across the State
- Tammin and Westonia to benefit from the $45 million Royalties for Regions RTP
- 153 new mobile phone towers to be built in regional WA under the RTP and Mobile Black Spot Program
Residents in the Wheatbelt towns of Tammin and Westonia are now experiencing improved mobile telephone coverage and high-speed wireless broadband thanks to the $45 million State Government Royalties for Regions-funded Regional Telecommunications Project (RTP).
Commerce Minister Michael Mischin said the RTP built on the success of the $40 million Regional Mobile Communications Project which was completed in September 2014.
Mr Mischin said the Tammin and Westonia mobile phone towers would contribute to the safety and convenience of people living, learning, working and investing in the townships.
The first 22 base stations under the RTP were announced earlier this year and approval for a 23rd tower, to be built in the Shire of Carnamah, has been received.
"The first four sites under RTP are now completed and have been switched on - these are located within the Wheatbelt towns of Wongan Hills, Tammin and Westonia, and the Great Southern town of Nyabing," Mr Mischin said.
"Improving communications in the regions is essential to connecting communities, improving emergency service capabilities, supporting businesses and opening up new economic opportunities.
"I am proud of our Government's achievements in doing so to date."
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said improved connectivity was another step forward in realising the full potential of regional businesses and communities.
"Both the Tammin and Westonia mobile towers will ensure local businesses have access to necessary technology, people travelling on our roads will be safer and better equipped and emergency services will have improved response times," Mr Redman said.
"Telecommunication connectivity is vital to social and economic development in regional areas, and Royalties for Regions investment such as this will continue to build a stronger economy and a better quality of life in the State's regions."
Additional sites will be co-funded under the Federal Government's $100 million Mobile Black Spot Program, announced earlier this year. The Federal and State governments will jointly fund the delivery of 109 of 130 new or upgraded mobile base stations in Western Australia under the Mobile Black Spot Program - an increase from the 85 originally planned under the RTP.
Fact File
- Regional Telecommunications Project will deliver more than 100 mobile phone towers to WA communities
- RTP is expected to be completed in 2018
- For more information, visit http://www.commerce.wa.gov.au
- For more information on Royalties for Regions projects, visit Bigger Picture - Regions
Commerce Minister's office - 6552 5600
Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6700
