People frustrated with poor mobile phone coverage across the Mornington Peninsula, Western Port, Bass Coast and Phillip Island are invited to make a submission to the Mobile Coverage Programme.
The Australian Government initiative aims to extend mobile phone coverage and competition in regional, remote and outer metropolitan areas.
The $100 million programme includes $20 million to improve mobile coverage in locations with unique coverage problems such as tourism destinations where there is high demand for services during seasonal holiday periods and $80 million to improve mobile coverage along major transport routes, in small communities and in areas that are prone to experiencing natural disasters.
Both Phillip Island and the Mornington Peninsula are popular destinations for tourists during the peak summer season, which increases the pressure on mobile phone networks.
I have had many residents come to me with concerns over inadequate or non-existent mobile phone coverage, especially during the holiday period. This is an opportunity for people to make a submission about why their area should be prioritised for network upgrades.
This programme is expected to provide 250-300 new or upgraded mobile base stations across Australia, significantly improving network coverage for people living in remote and regional areas.
Residents can report locations with poor or non-existent mobile coverage to me via email to greg.hunt.mp@aph.gov.au with Mobile Coverage in the subject line or in writing to PO Box 274 Hastings, 3915.
Submissions to the Mobile Coverage Programme are due by 5pm Friday 28 February, with regions selected for upgrades to be announced later this year.
Media contact: Samantha Robin on 03 5979 3188 or 0427 787 166