The Liberal Nationals have promised to invest $30 million in telecommunications infrastructure across rural and regional Victoria if they are elected in 2018.
The Liberal Nationals said it would invest $30 million over four years in telecommunications infrastructure that improves mobile coverage and competition across Victoria.
Leader of The Nationals Peter Walsh said it was critical for farmers, families and other businesses in rural and regional communities that the next Victorian Government makes ongoing investment for telecommunications infrastructure.
“There are too many places across our state where communications services aren’t up to scratch,” Mr Walsh said.
“In this digital age where the internet, smartphones and technology dominate, it is absolutely critical that families and businesses in rural and regional areas have reliable telephone and internet services.
“Under our program, we’ll prioritise investment in mobile towers that improve coverage in areas prone to bushfire, along transport routes, key agribusiness areas and communities with limited telecommunications access.”
Mr Walsh said poor mobile connectivity impacts liveability, quality of life and business productivity and profitability in rural and regional Victoria.
Regional Victorians, and notably farmers, rate telecommunications as one of the most pressing public policy problems affecting their lives and businesses.
The Victorian investment program will leverage co-investments from federal and local governments, service providers, businesses and communities.
“We’re listening closely to the issues being raised by stakeholders including the Victorian Farmers Federation and our own local communities,” Mr Walsh said.
