Applications open for Regional Connectivity and Mobile Black Spot Grants

324202_01

Applications have opened for Regional Connectivity and Mobile Black Spot Grants to help improve communications in regional, rural remote and First Nations communities.

Locals and businesses, including those in the Whittlesea electorate of McEwen, are encouraged to work together with local councils, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and other interested parties to develop multi-MNO solutions, including solutions that use active sharing technologies.

McEwen MP Rob Mitchell encourages locals to work with councils, Mobile Network Operators and his electorate office to identify black spots before submissions close on May 31.

“The Mobile Black Spot and Regional Connectivity grants are designed to help those living and working in rural, regional and remote communities, helping them stay in touch with loved ones, run businesses efficiently, and stay connected during emergencies,” he said.

“The Mobile Black Spot Program is a great opportunity for locals and businesses in McEwen to work together to identify projects that will help people who live, work and travel to our community.”

The $50 million Mobile Black Spot stream will provide grant funding to Mobile Network Operators and infrastructure providers to deliver new handheld mobile coverage to rural, regional and remote locations across Australia.

The $100 million Regional Connectivity stream will provide grant funding to projects that provide place-based new or improved broadband services and, or improved mobile services in eligible locations across Australia.

Both streams include dedicated funding for solutions to improve telecommunications infrastructure in First Nations communities.

Information: www.grants.gov.au