A new Telstra base station at Kobyboyn, east of Seymour, will improve mobile and broadband connectivity for the area.
Delivered through the Federal Government’s Regional Connectivity Program, RCP, the 4G macro cell base station will support access to essential digital services including telehealth, education, skills and training and emergency communications, and enhance business and e-commerce opportunities.
The Federal Government contributed $346,500 to the project, which also received contributions from the State Government and Telstra.
State Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney said the project would make a positive impact on the Kobyboyn community.
“The improved connectivity will not only mean more Victorians can stay connected with family and friends, but will also provide the region with easier access to health and education services, as well as business technologies,” she said.
Senator for Victoria Jana Stewart said ‘bridging the digital divide’ was key to improving liveability across regional Victoria and drove growth for local businesses and economies.
“This project will make a meaningful difference to the community of Kobyboyn and is a great example of Commonwealth-state collaboration, working alongside industry, to boost regional connectivity,” she said.
“I look forward to seeing the positive flow-on effects this has on the community and the entire region.”
The Kobyboyn project was delivered under round one of RCP funding which provided $115.8 million for 129 projects across Australia.
A further $200 million has been allocated for additional RCP rounds.
Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland said every Australian deserved access to fast, reliable broadband ‘regardless of postcode or circumstance’.
The RCP is part of the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, providing $656 million to improve mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience in rural, regional and remote communities.
For more information on the Better Connectivity Plan, visit infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/better-connectivity-plan-regional-and-rural-australia.
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