23 March 2019

New Mobile Base Station for Makin

Senator for South Australia, the Hon David Fawcett announced today that Makin locals and visitors will be able to access improved mobile phone coverage, as a result of the Federal Liberal Government’s $220 million Mobile Black Spot Program.

The new 3G/4G macro-cell base station will be constructed in Little Para Pass will enable improved access for those utilising the Telstra network within surrounding suburbs such as Greenwith, Gould Creek and Sampson Flat.

“We do an incredible amount with our mobile phones and devices these days and providing better coverage for communities has the potential to dramatically improve their quality of life as locals will be able to call family and friends, conduct business, and go shopping all from their homes,” Senator Fawcett said.

“Its great news that residents and businesses in the north eastern portion of Makin, and all the areas of South Australia receiving new towers, can now enjoy the benefits and opportunities that improved mobile connectivity brings.”

“The Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program targets problematic areas, such as hilly or mountainous regions, and assists commercial telecommunication companies with the costs of providing better coverage to these areas.”

Makin’s new tower will be received under the fourth round of the Federal Liberal Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program, scheduled to be constructed before 30 June 2020 with the first new base stations being activated by the second half of the year.

Minister for Regional Services Bridget McKenzie said Round 4 of the program will deliver 29 new base stations for regional and remote communities in South Australia.

“The announcement of successful Round 4 base stations means 1047 base stations are being delivered under the Mobile Black Spot Program nationwide. This reaffirms
our commitment to delivering 21st century connectivity to our regions and will benefit thousands of Australians.”

“Our continued investment in mobile phone infrastructure is proof that we are focused on connecting all Australians no matter where they live,” Minister McKenzie said.

The Mobile Black Spot Program enables mobile carriers to service areas where it would otherwise not be commercially viable. So far the program is generating over $760 million of new investment including contributions from state and local governments, mobile network operators, businesses and local communities.

More information about the program is available at: communications.gov.au/mbsp

Ends.