The Andrews Labor Government is improving mobile connectivity in the northern suburbs of Melbourne with new mobile towers and upgrades to existing ones.

The Labor Government will partner with telecommunications company Optus to deliver two new mobile towers and upgrade three towers to 5G through the Connecting Victoria program.

The upgrades will provide better coverage across Attwood, Gladstone Park, Keilor North, Melbourne Airport, Sunbury, Tullamarine and Westmeadows.

The works will be carried out between 2024 and 2026, delivering improved services across more than 135 square kilometres in areas north of Melbourne, benefiting more than 27,000 premises.

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

Key feedback from the report made it clear that improved mobile services are needed in this area to keep pace 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 will be announced throughout 2022. To keep up to date, visit vic.gov.au/connectingvictoria.

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

“We know that connectivity lags are holding back businesses and affecting people’s everyday lives in Melbourne’s outer suburbs.”

“Improved connectivity gives people more choice and options when it comes to finding the right plan at the right cost to meet their needs.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Sunbury Josh Bull

“Supporting residents and businesses in Melbourne’s north with reliable mobile coverage is vital – that’s why we’re making sure they can stay connected when they need it most.”

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

“Optus wishes to thank the Victorian Government for their significant investment which will go a long way in strengthening the mobile infrastructure across northern Melbourne.”