Tasmanian Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management Felix Ellis has announced that eight of the state’s public safety agencies will transition to the Tasmanian Government Radio Network(TasGRN), provided by Telstra and Motorola Solutions, commencing in July.

The $763 million network was announced in 2020 and has been built on a feature-rich platform providing a range of capabilities, including greater interoperability; increased coverage; secure, encrypted communications for emergency service workers; and a modern user interface.

“First responders save lives in every corner of Tasmania and they need communications tools to match,” Ellis said.

“Our emergency service workers have highlighted the need for reliable interoperability in radio communications to support effective responses to emergency situations.

“The Rockliff Liberal government has listened to the community and with partner agencies we’ve invested a total of $763 million to establish TasGRN.

“We’re doing this because when our firefighters or police officers are responding to emergency incidents they deserve to have high-performing communications equipment to support their safety and the safety of the community.”

Ellis said the transition to the new network will see Hydro Tasmania, TasNetworks, Parks and Wildlife, and Sustainable Timber Tasmania move across by August. The police, fire and emergency services will then follow.

“The TasGRN project has created up to 50 jobs during the three-year construction phase, with additional positions to be recruited to help run and oversee the network once it is fully operational later this year,” Ellis said.

“As an added bonus, the TasGRN will deliver improved mobile phone coverage for Telstra users in Tasmania at no cost to the state, particularly in regional Tasmania.”