Tarneit and surrounding suburbs in Melbourne's west will soon have better mobile connectivity as the Andrews Labor Government continues to invest in new mobile towers and upgrades to existing towers.
Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford today announced partnerships with Optus and TPG Telecom to deliver five new mobile towers and upgrade five existing towers to 5G through the Connecting Victoria program.
The work will be carried out between 2023 and 2026 to deliver improved services across 296 square kilometres in Melbourne's outer west, benefiting more than 89,000 homes and businesses.
Coverage areas include Derrimut, Hoppers Crossing, Mount Cottrell, Point Cook, Ravenhall, Rockbank, Tarneit, Truganina, Werribee South and Wyndham Vale.
Optus and TPG Telecom will share infrastructure at some of these sites, giving locals a choice of mobile provider and improving competition.
Earlier this year the Victorian Government released its Connecting Victoria engagement report, voicing the needs of more than 11,000 Victorians for better mobile and broadband connections.
Key feedback from the report highlighted that improved mobile services are needed in Melbourne's west to keep up with population growth to boost businesses, allow more remote working and help build community inclusion.
The Government's Connecting Victoria program is fast-tracking improvements to mobile coverage and broadband access across the state. More projects in locations will be announced throughout 2022. To keep up to date, visit vic.gov.au/connectingvictoriaExternal Link.
As stated by Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford
"Melbourne's outer west is growing fast, and we're delivering upgrades and building infrastructure to support these communities - which will also boost the local economy and create more jobs."
As stated by Member for Tarneit Sarah Connolly
"People living and working in Melbourne's west deserve to have reliable mobile coverage - which the Government is delivering. It helps connect residents and support businesses, allowing communities to thrive."
As stated by Optus Vice President of Regulatory and Public Affairs Andrew Sheridan
"This investment will be critical in hardening the mobile network, minimising connectivity outages and keeping more Victorians connected when it matters most."
As stated by TPG Telecom Head of Infrastructure Strategy & Integrated Planning Paul Tremlett
"We are proud to coinvest with the Victorian Government to help more consumers and businesses stay connected in Melbourne's outer west."
