The third round of the Federal Government’s Mobile Network Hardening Program (MNHP) is open to applications, to support the improvement of mobile network resilience to keep communities safe during natural disasters.
The MNHP co-funds projects with mobile carriers and tower companies to deliver upgrades that reduce the risk of outages and improve restoration times, for example, portable generators, back-up power equipment and physical mobile tower hardening.
Up to $20 million (GST exclusive) is available through this round, which is open to projects located in natural disaster-prone areas in regional and remote Australia and, for the first time, in the peri-urban fringe of 19 capital and major regional cities.
An online Project Noticeboard allows communities to provide advice to the telco industry on potential projects or locations.
The noticeboard is available on the Department’s website until Friday 13 December 2024.
Rounds one and three of the MNHP are funding 1,386 projects nationwide, with 896 already complete.
Federal Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, said that the Federal Government understands how vital telecommunication services are for keeping communities safe, connected and informed during disruptions, emergencies and natural disasters.
“In some circumstances, it can mean the difference between life and death,” Minister Rowland said.
“Through the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, we are investing up to $100 million towards improving the resilience of networks against natural disasters.
“This includes $20 million through the latest round of the Mobile Network Hardening Program to boost the resilience of communications networks outside major cities.
“For the first time, this program is available for communities on the urban fringes of our major cities, which are prone to natural disasters.
“I encourage local communities to speak with their councillors, State, Territory and Federal representatives to identify potential projects or locations that could benefit from improved communications resilience.”
Applications for Round Three of the MNHP close at 5 PM on 20 December 2024. Visit the government grants website to apply or view the application guidelines.
