Applications have been called for telecommunications carriers to partner with the State Government to deliver high-speed broadband services to the Northern Goldfields.
The McGowan Government has put $1 million on the table towards a project to provide fast, reliable, scalable and affordable broadband to local businesses, communities and pastoralists in the Leonora, Laverton and Menzies districts.
Applications are encouraged from both land-based and satellite technology telecommunications companies, including providers of emerging digital connectivity options.
The unique project will ensure businesses and communities in this remote area have access to digital services needed to operate in today's connected and dynamic digital environment.
The McGowan Government has invested more than $30 million towards regional telecommunications over the past four years.
These efforts to bridge the digital divide are assisting Western Australian businesses to continue to grow and thrive - driving regional economies and jobs, as well as providing regional communities with better connectivity.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"We have listened to communities in the Northern Goldfields and moved to address the limitations of the National Broadband Network in providing the speed, bandwidth and coverage required in this day and age.
"This $1 million investment will help deliver a creative technology solution to roll out a quality broadband service to businesses and residents in this remote region.
"This investment is another demonstration of our commitment to helping to bridge the digital divide in our State's most remote towns and communities."
As stated by Kalgoorlie MLA Ali Kent:
"I am thrilled to see this project get off the ground, after many discussions with local businesses and residents about the need for a high quality digital service in the region.
"Soon businesses and communities in the Northern Goldfields will get to share in the benefits of fast, reliable, affordable and scalable broadband.
"This digital investment will not only build business capacity, it will also improve social amenity in the Northern Goldfields, helping remote communities stay connected and providing residents with a stronger voice."
