Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford visited Latrobe City today to launch our extended free public Wi-Fi Network.
A $1.3 million Labor Government investment is boosting regional connectivity by extending free public WiFi across the Latrobe City giving residents and visitors in Traralgon, Morwell, Moe, Churchill, Tyers, Yinnar, Boolarra, Yallourn North and Glengarry easier internet access.
The extended network has been delivered by Council by using Council infrastructure and a number of telco service providers. It will give local communities, businesses, schools and students in Latrobe access to fast free internet connectivity and help promote our region as a great place to work, live and do business.
Separately, the Government will also upgrade six mobile towers in the area from 4G to 5G through the Connecting Victoria program.
These upgrades will be delivered through partnerships with Optus and TPG Telecom. The telcos have agreed to share infrastructure at some of these sites, giving locals a choice of mobile provider and improving competition.
The work will be carried out between 2023 and 2025 to deliver improved services across more than 295 square kilometres in Latrobe, benefiting more than 67,000 premises.
Places that will be covered include Callignee, Callignee South, Carrajung, Churchill, Glengarry North, Glengarry West, Hazelwood, Hazelwood South, Jeeralang Junction, Koornalla, Loy Yang, Traralgon, Traralgon East, Traralgon South, Tyers and Yinnar.
Quote attributable to Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford
“We’re investing in extending free WiFi access and improving reception coverage because internet access and mobile connectivity is important for everyone, no matter where they live.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“This will benefit so many by improving visitor experiences, helping local businesses and residents to access technology and stay better connected.”
Quote attributable to Mayor of Latrobe City Council Kellie O'Callaghan
“Digital connectivity is crucial to Latrobe City's economic transformation, supporting business growth, enhancing liveability and our visitor economy.”