Western Australia is about to see a significant enhancement in mobile coverage, thanks to a new joint initiative from the Albanese and Cook Governments. Announced today, the $16 million investment aims to improve connectivity along key highways and major roads in the state’s regional and remote areas.
The funding is part of the Albanese Government’s $50 million Regional Roads Australia Mobile Program (RRAMP), which is designed to explore innovative solutions for boosting mobile connectivity. This pilot program will set the stage for a broader national program expected to be unveiled in 2025.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has revealed that $8 million of the funding will be allocated to WA. This investment will enable the Cook Government to address mobile coverage gaps by developing new infrastructure. The WA Government is matching this with an additional $8 million, focusing on enhancing coverage along two major regional corridors: Albany Highway between Bedfordale and Albany Airport, and the Great Eastern Highway between Bullabulling and Meckering.
The anticipated improvements will offer multiple benefits. Enhanced mobile coverage will bolster safety on regional roads, support economic growth, and strengthen social connectivity. It will also play a critical role during emergencies, providing better access to information and communication when disaster strikes.
The pilot program follows the inaugural Regional Connectivity Ministers Roundtable held in August 2023, where the need for improved mobile connectivity on major roads was highlighted. The initiative underscores a commitment from both State and Federal Governments to partner in addressing connectivity issues.
The RRAMP pilot is expected to commence shortly, with applications set to open before the end of the year. This initiative will contribute to the broader $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which aims to enhance connectivity for communities across the country.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasised the significance of the program in bridging the digital divide in rural and regional areas. She noted that this pilot program represents a critical step in delivering connectivity and safety improvements for communities in WA and beyond. The RRAMP pilot is expected to pave the way for more comprehensive solutions in the future.
Emergency Management Minister Jenny McAllister highlighted the program’s importance in disaster response. Improved mobile coverage will be vital for timely communication and coordination during emergencies, particularly as bushfire season approaches. McAllister stressed that every second counts in a disaster, and maintaining contact with loved ones and accessing crucial information can make a difference.
WA Regional Development Minister Don Punch also voiced support for the program, noting its potential to significantly benefit communities and businesses in regional WA. The upgrades along key corridors will enhance mobile services across the Wheatbelt, Goldfields, and Great Southern regions. Punch acknowledged the WA Government’s ongoing commitment to improving connectivity infrastructure, which has included $154 million in investments since 2017 to complement federal and industry contributions.
As the program moves forward, it promises to bring substantial improvements to mobile connectivity in Western Australia’s regional areas, enhancing safety, economic opportunities, and communication capabilities for residents and businesses alike.
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