Victorians’ need for better mobile and broadband connections to improve economic growth and community safety have been highlighted in a report from the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions (DJPR).
In a statement, the Department said its Engagement Report was part of its Connecting Victoria Program, which sought to fast-track improved mobile coverage and broadband across the State.
Announcing the release of the Report, Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy, Jaala Pulford said the Report showed connectivity challenges existed right across the State.
“The Government will take into account insights from those who contributed to the engagement process and use it to form part of the decision-making process for which locations will be upgraded in future,” Ms Pulford said.
DJPR said its Report identified several common connectivity issue themes, including how a lack of connectivity was hindering economic growth; the need to better support remote working, learning and health services; and the vital importance of maintaining connectivity in emergencies.
“Your insights will help us to better understand where mobile and broadband improvements are needed across the State,” it said.
The Department said people who participated in the consultation process said they valued fairness in the distribution of funding and services, and that it would be helpful if Government addressed the barriers some faced in accessing the digital world.
Ms Pulford said locations to receive upgrades or new infrastructure would be announced throughout the year.
DJPR’s 25-page Report can be accessed at this PS News link.
