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This initiative aims to keep communities safer and more connected during and after natural disasters.
Up to $20 million (GST exclusive) is available through Round 3 of the Albanese Government’s Mobile Network Hardening Program (MNHP), with applications open and guidelines available at www.grants.gov.au
The MNHP co-funds projects with mobile carriers and tower companies to deliver upgrades that reduce the risk of outages and improve restoration times, for example, portable generators, back-up power equipment and physical mobile tower hardening.
Round 3 of the MNHP is open to projects located natural disaster-prone areas in regional and remote Australia and, for the first time, in the peri-urban fringe of 19 capital and major regional cities.
Applications for Round 3 of MNHP close 5 PM AEDT Friday, 20 December 2024.
“The Albanese Government understands how vital telecommunication services are for keeping communities safe, connected and informed during disruptions, emergencies and natural disasters – in some circumstances, it can mean the difference between life and death,” says Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP.
“Through the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, we are investing up to $100 million towards improving the resilience of networks against natural disasters.”
Read also: Addressing mobile reception issues in high-risk disaster areas across Australia
“This includes $20 million through the latest round of the Mobile Network Hardening Program to boost the resilience of communications networks outside major cities.”
“For the first time, this program is available for communities on the urban fringes of our major cities, which are prone to natural disasters.”
“I encourage local communities to speak with their Councillors, State, Territory and Federal representatives to identify potential projects or locations that could benefit from improved communications resilience.”
An online Project Noticeboard allows communities to provide advice to the telco industry on potential projects or locations.
In total, the Albanese Government is investing $2.2 billion in regional communications – the most significant investment in this critical area since the inception of the National Broadband Network.
Including up to $100 million towards improving the resilience of networks against natural disasters through the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.
Rounds 1 and 2 of the MNHP are funding 1,386 projects nationwide, with 896 already complete.
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.
