Macedon Ranges phone and internet black spots have been overlooked in the next round of the federal government’s Mobile Black Spot Program.
The area has not been listed as a government priority location, so will not get any of the $60 million allocated in the 2017-18 federal budget for 125 new base stations in round three of the program.
Bendigo MP Lisa Chesters said she was “bitterly disappointed” that the more than 100 black spots in the Macedon Ranges would not receive even a single new tower.
“The number of black spots in the area has been well established,” she said. “The federal, state, and local governments are aware of them.
“The government say they prioritise areas that are at risk of bushfire, and areas of productivity and farming – that’s the Macedon Ranges.”
Absent and poor telecommunications coverage in the region impedes safety, business productivity, education, social connectedness and access to services, a 2014 study into Macedon Ranges telecommunications black spots found.
“No warning text messages received when large fire threatened Gisborne South this summer,” one survey participant said.
“Relatives and friends are quite often unable to contact us at times of power loss – this is a concern if there is an emergency,” said another.
Other responders said their lack of reception made it difficult to work and study from home.
Ms Chesters said she was unaware of any details about future funding under the program.
Star Weekly sought comment from the federal government.
