The Albanese Government’s Mobile Network Hardening Program (MNHP) is making this possible by aiming to reduce service outages during natural disasters and throughout the response and recovery periods.
Round 2 of the MNHP is injecting $14.2 million into 386 projects. These initiatives include battery back-up power upgrades, which will extend power reserves to provide an additional 12 hours of service during outages. Upgrades to transmission resiliency will mitigate the risk of single points of failure causing widespread outages.
Additionally, permanent generators will offer 5 to 7 days of backup power, and two Disaster Recovery Skids will be deployed to restore mobile services in regional and remote areas of New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania.
Approximately 90% of the 988 projects from Round 1 of the MNHP are now complete, enhancing mobile network telecommunications infrastructure resilience. With the latest round of funding, the total number of projects reaches 1,385.
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To strengthen mobile and broadband connections and resilience, the Albanese government has allocated $1.1 billion for the Better Connectivity Plan, of which the MNHP is a component. This program enhances productivity and fosters economic and social engagement in rural, regional, and First Nations communities, therefore reducing the gap in digital access.
Minister for Communications, Hon Michelle Rowland MP, emphasised the government’s commitment: “While no telecommunications network can ever be 100% disaster-proof, the Albanese Government is determined to reduce the risk of communications outages during natural disasters.”
“This funding will deliver over 380 projects across the country to keep networks online when Australians need it most.”
“Funded through our $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan, the Mobile Network Hardening Program is another example of how the Albanese Government is delivering on our commitment to improve connectivity for regional, rural, and remote Australians.”
These investments will not only improve the resilience of telecommunications but also guarantee that communities remain connected during critical periods. The Albanese Government is taking proactive measures to protect Australians and assist community recovery efforts with improvements to the network infrastructure.
Adrianne Saplagio is a Content Producer at Comms Room, where she combines her passion for storytelling with her expertise in multimedia content creation. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for engaging audiences, Adrianne has been instrumental in crafting compelling narratives that resonate across various digital platforms.
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