The Labor Party has announced it will fix mobile phone black spots in Macquarie, matching a Coalition pledge to improve coverage in Yellow Rock among other locations.
Labor’s communications spokesman Jason Clare said a Shorten Labor Government would also improve the administration of the mobile black spot program.
“Under the Abbott-Turnbull Government, there have been some glaring oversights,” he said.
“A Shorten Labor Government will improve the delivery of the mobile black spot program, and give priority to regional areas of New South Wales prone to natural disasters, like bushfires.”
Labor candidate for Macquarie Susan Templeman said the announcement would make a huge difference to local communities.
“The majority of residents in Megalong Valley, St Albans and Yellow Rock experience poor mobile coverage, and are totally frustrated with Malcolm Turnbull’s failed mobile phone rollout,” she said.
“Poor mobile coverage impacts families, students and small businesses in our region. We have a local economy that is dependent on tourism and retail, so coverage is vital.
“This lack of coverage is of particular concern for our elderly who often rely on these connections to stay in touch with family and friends.
“The Megalong Valley, in close proximity to the Blue Mountains, attracts thousands of tourists each year. But with little to no coverage, it’s a real challenge for businesses and a safety issue for locals and tourists.”
Sitting Macquarie MP Louise Markus announced improved mobile phone coverage for Yellow Rock last week.
“I have been advocating for improved mobile coverage in Yellow Rock for some time, particularly following the 2013 Blue Mountains bushfires,” she said.
The coverage from a Telstra mobile tower soon to be installed in Winmalee, would not extend to Yellow Rock, and therefore another tower was needed, she said.
“A new mobile tower is essential in this area for emergency services operators and residents,” Mrs Markus said.
