Farrer MP Sussan Ley has announced a $1.14m agreement to super charge future telecommunication options for communities throughout the Leeton and Narrandera Shires.

Under the Federal Government’s Regional Connectivity Program (RCP), the project will add new ‘true broadband’ technology onto three new towers at Narrandera, Grong Grong and Square Nob as well the Leeton water tower.

Ms Ley said a joint partnership between the Commonwealth, private enterprise and local government will deliver new coverage across 3,100sqkm, boosting faster internet and mobile voice & data to an estimated 17,000 local residents and 1500 businesses.

“It will keep our businesses connected, helps local families and visitors stay in touch and delivers improved access to health, education and online services.”

“This latest boost in connectivity for our region also links to improved coverage plans we announced in April for the Murrumbidgee Council area, boosting future internet options there to around 3000 residents.”   

Narrandera Mayor Cr Neville Kschenka welcomed this important investment to ensure digital equity to the most remote corners of the Western Riverina, including farms and businesses which have been in somewhat of a broadband shadow up until now. 

He said it made sense to use existing infrastructure such as the Leeton water tower to open up high speed internet and better connectivity, as well as smaller villages in neighbouring shires which  don't currently benefit from a full NBN service..  

The RCP is part of the Coalition Government’s ongoing commitment to bring the digital economy to rural Australia, complementing the National Broadband Network and the Mobile Black Spot Program.

The Federal Government is contributing a total of $117.4 million to the first round of the RCP, generating total new investment of more than $232 million - the program is a key component of the Government’s response to the 2018 Regional Telecommunications Review.