The Department of Regional Development has announced a pilot project aimed at delivering high-speed broadband services to the Northern Goldfields.
The Department said an Expression of Interest would be issued soon for telecommunications carriers to partner in the project to deliver fast, reliable, scalable and affordable broadband to pastoralists, local businesses and communities in the Leonora, Laverton and the Menzies districts.
“Submissions will be encouraged from both land-based and satellite technology telecommunications companies, including providers of emerging digital connectivity options,” the Department said.
Minister for Regional Development, Alannah MacTiernan said the initiative would deliver a modern business service to pastoralists in the area, who would be able to employ Internet of Things remote sensing devices across their vast properties, as well as enjoy an improved internet connection essential for today’s global operating environment.
“The grant from the Agricultural Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund complements the Digital Farm Grants program, which has provided $13.3 million to 20 projects throughout the State over the past four years,” Ms MacTiernan said.
“Northern Goldfields communities have consistently raised connectivity issues with us, with the National Broadband Network failing to deliver the speed or bandwidth they need to grow.”
She said the pilot created the opportunity to explore a whole range of telecommunications technologies, both existing and emerging, to deliver high-grade broadband services to the remote region.
