The completed project is providing improved handheld mobile and data coverage to the town of Fosterville, meaning the community can better access services like health, education and government support, stay in touch with family and friends, and run successful small businesses.

The completed site forms part of a broader seven site project that will improve connectivity Axedale, Goornong, Knowsley, Colbinabbin, Toollen Sports Club and Heathcote Raceway. All seven sites are expected to be completed later this year.

The Australian Government has contributed $1,113,050 to the total project, along with contributions from the Victorian Government, Telstra Limited and Agnico Eagle Pty Ltd.

This project will be delivered under Round 2 of the RCP funding, which provided $134.2 million for 91 projects across Australia.

The Albanese Government is working to narrow the digital divide in rural and regional Australia through its $656 million Better Connectivity Plan (BCP).

The BCP has funded additional rounds of both the Regional Connectivity Program and Mobile Black Spot Program, with funding outcomes for RCP Round 3 and MBSP Round 7 announced last year.

For more information on the Regional Connectivity Program, visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/rcp

For more information on the Better Connectivity Plan visit https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/better-connectivity-plan-regional-and-rural-australia


Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:

“The Albanese Government is committed to narrowing the digital divide in rural and regional Australia – including in communities like Fosterville.

“This completed project will help improve local services, meaning residents and small businesses can better leverage technology to reach their full potential.

“This project shows the positive outcomes that can be achieved through close collaboration between Government and industry. I look forward to seeing the remaining sites funded under this grant come online later this year”.


Quotes attributable to the Member for Bendigo, Lisa Chesters MP:

“This significant project will make a meaningful difference to communities in Fosterville, delivering improved connectivity and access to essential digital services like telehealth.

“It will also support our local businesses to employ new technologies that will boost productivity.”