The Andrews Labor Government is improving mobile connectivity in western Victoria with a new mobile tower and upgrades to existing infrastructure.

Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford today announced partnerships with Optus and TPG Telecom to deliver a new mobile tower and upgrade five existing towers from 4G to 5G through the Labor Government’s Connecting Victoria program.

The work will be carried out between 2023 and 2024 to deliver improved services across 103 square kilometres in Wendouree and northern Ballarat, benefiting more than 34,000 households.

Residents and businesses in Addington, Bakery Hill, Ballarat Central, Black Hill, Cardigan, Golden Point, Invermay, Invermay Park, Lake Gardens, Lake Wendouree, Learmonth, Miners Rest, Mount Bolton, Mitchell Park, Mount Pleasant, Mount Rowan, Newington, Redan, Wendouree and Weatherboard can look forward to improved coverage.

Earlier this year the Labor Government released its Connecting Victoria engagement report, voicing the needs of more than 11,000 Victorians for better mobile and broadband connections.

Key feedback from the report highlighted that improved mobile services are needed in this area to keep up with population growth, helping to boost tourism and the local economy.

The Government’s $550 million Connecting Victoria program is fast-tracking improvements to mobile coverage and broadband access across the state.

More projects in locations across the state, including Ballarat, will be announced throughout 2022. To keep up to date, visit vic.gov.au/connectingvictoria.

Quote attributable to Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford

“The last couple of years has shown us just how important a decent connection is and I’m excited to be bringing Connecting Victoria to Ballarat.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“We’re supporting our community by ensuring that mobile services are accessible and reliable. I’m sure that our businesses and households will welcome the improved coverage across Ballarat.”

Quote attributable to Optus Vice President of Regulatory and Public Affairs Andrew Sheridan

“This investment will go a long way in strengthening the mobile infrastructure in Ballarat. It will be critical in hardening the mobile network, minimising connectivity outages and keeping more Victorians connected when it matters most.”

Quote attributable to TPG Telecom Head of Infrastructure Strategy & Integrated Planning Paul Tremlett

“Mobile network sharing agreements like these provide a vital competition, connectivity and productivity boost into regional areas. We are proud to work with the Victorian Government on these important initiatives that are helping more communities connect.”