The Australian Government is working to improve communications resilience on the NSW Central Coast by launching a process to upgrade the existing Telstra mobile tower at Yarramalong.

Under the Mobile Networking Hardening Program, the government will provide up to $140,000 to improve mobile network resilience in the area against power outages, including during natural disasters. The funding will contribute towards the costs of deploying a permanent, onsite generator to ensure continuity of Telstra mobile services to the local community for a minimum of 24 hours in the event of a mains power outage, supporting public safety communications and access to essential digital services.

Telstra will be called on to submit a proposal to upgrade the base station in line with the grant opportunity guidelines. Funding will be awarded if the proposal complies with the guidelines and is assessed as achieving value for money by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts. The final outcome is expected to be announced towards the end of 2023.

“Reliable and resilient telecommunications infrastructure is critical for the safety of our Central Coast communities,” said the Member for Dobell, Emma McBride.

“Upgrades to the Yarramalong tower will help to keep locals safer, better connected and informed during times of crisis and natural disasters, which are on the rise.

“The launch of this grants process demonstrates how the Albanese government is delivering improved, targeted communications infrastructure on the ground, particularly in regional Australia.”

Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland added, “While no communications network can ever be 100% resilient, the Albanese government is determined to do what we can to keep telco infrastructure up and running during disasters.

“In releasing these guidelines, our government has taken the next step to deliver on its election commitment to the people of Yarramalong to keep them safe and connected during emergencies.”