Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has expressed disappointment over Telstra’s withdrawal from delivering a new mobile phone tower at Anglers Rest, warning that failure to provide the critical infrastructure may endanger lives.
“Adequate access to reliable telecommunications is vital for our regional and rural communities, particularly those in natural disaster-prone areas,” Mr Chester said.
“Telstra has withdrawn its application to build a mobile tower at Anglers Rest due to insufficient funding stemming from excessive construction costs.
“This is a disappointing development for the community which was successful under the Mobile Black Spot Program for the delivery of a phone tower, only to have the application withdrawn.
“This is a region that has experienced two severe bushfires in the last 20 years and is located in the second largest national park in Australia.
“Not to mention the increase in traffic, including motorcycles, caravans, log trucks and other heavy vehicles on the Omeo Highway travelling between Omeo and Albury-Wodonga.
“In times of emergency or natural disaster, reliable telecommunications are essential and can save lives.”
Mr Chester is working with the community and has requested the Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, to initiate an investigation into Telstra’s withdrawal of its application to deliver the tower at Anglers Rest. He has also called on the Department of Communications to provide shortfall funding to enable Telstra to deliver this critical communications tower.
“Mobile connectivity is a critical part of daily social and business interaction and vital for personal safety,” Mr Chester said.
“Connectivity in all its forms, including mobile phone and internet coverage, is critical to the economic growth and prosperity of rural and regional Victoria, and the ability to stay connected will underpin job opportunities and the social fabric of our region for decades to come.”
“Most importantly, a reliable telecommunications network is essential in reducing the risk to human life in an emergency or natural disaster.”
