3 May 2026
12 remote communities and homelands in the Northern Territory now have access to mobile phone coverage for the first time.
A $5.8 million co-investment program is delivering critical connectivity across the NT.
Improved access to education, telehealth and emergency services is strengthening safety and connectivity in remote regions.
More remote regions across the Northern Territory now have access to mobile phone coverage than ever before, thanks to a $5.8 million co-investment program between the Finocchiaro CLP Government and Telstra.
The Remote Small Cells Program (ReSC) has now delivered 4G small cells in 12 remote communities and homelands across the Territory:
Orrtipa-Thurra and Urlampe (Central Australia Region)Garrthalala, Gamardi, Donydji and Rorruwuy (East Arnhem Region)Emu Point, Mamadawerre, Manmoyi and Ji-Marda (Top End Region)Menngen (Big Rivers Region)Corella Creek (Barkly Region)
Minister for Corporate and Digital Development Joshua Burgoyne said the CLP Government was ensuring Territorians could stay connected.
"For the first time, people living in these regions can access mobile coverage, enabling them to call triple zero in emergencies, access telehealth services, and connect to online education and resources," said Mr Burgoyne.
"With the NT's vast landscapes, reliable communication is critical for keeping communities safe and connected.
"Expanding mobile coverage also boosts liveability and opens up opportunities for local businesses, education and health services, helping these regions grow and thrive."
This rollout builds on additional connectivity upgrades under the CLP Government, including:
Increased coverage in Kakadu National Park through the $7.5 million ' Connecting Kakadu' project here, jointly funded by the NT Government, Federal Government (Parks Australia and Telstra.New 4G Telstra towers installed in key locations by Telstra, including Alice Springs Golf Club here.The CLP Government investing $4 million ongoing until 2027 into the 'Schools Connectivity Uplift Program' to deliver faster internet to schools here.
"This is all part of our ongoing commitment to rebuild the economy and restore our unique Territory lifestyle during our year of growth, certainty and security," said Mr Burgoyne.
Telstra Regional Australia Executive Loretta Willaton said: "We are pleased to bring this new connectivity to communities across the Northern Territory and we are committed to continuing to support regional and remote Australians with vital connectivity services."
