Mobile connectivity in Geelong is set to be improved with a new mobile tower and upgrades to existing infrastructure.
Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford announced partnerships with Optus and TPG Telecom to build a new mobile tower and upgrade 10 towers to 5G through the Connecting Victoria program.
The work will be carried out between 2023 and 2026 and will deliver improved services across 124 square kilometres in Geelong and benefit more than 61,000 homes and businesses. Coverage will be improved for residents, businesses and visitors in Bell Park, Bell Post Hill, Belmont, Breakwater, Drumcondra, East Geelong, Geelong, Geelong West, Hamlyn Heights, Herne Hill, Manifold Heights, Marshall, Newtown, Norlane, North Geelong, North Shore, Rippleside, South Geelong, St Albans Park and Thomson.
“Mobile and broadband services play a vital role in driving economic growth and jobs, and we want everyone to have access to reliable service when they need it most,” Minister Pulford said.
Optus and TPG Telecom will share infrastructure at some of these sites, giving locals a choice of mobile provider and improving competition.
Earlier this year the state government released its Connecting Victoria engagement report, voicing the needs of more than 11,000 Victorians for better mobile and broadband connections. The report highlights that improved mobile services are needed in Geelong to keep up with population growth, with improved coverage to provide a boost for tourism and the local economy.
