Residents are being invited to rate their mobile phone reception as part of an initiative to identify and map coverage black spots across the Redlands.
Bowman MP Henry Pike has launched an online survey where locals can leave a score for the reception quality at their location to help pinpoint problem areas.
Mr Pike said data collected through the program would be used to press mobile phone companies and the federal government for infrastructure improvements.
“As more people have transitioned away from the landline, poor mobile coverage is not only an inconvenience but also a potential safety risk,” he said
“In today’s digital age, reliable mobile phone service is a necessity, not a luxury, and people living in suburban communities should be able to enjoy excellent mobile coverage.”
Mr Pike said pockets of Redlands had been experiencing significant issues with poor mobile reception.
“Official mobile coverage maps are often inaccurate or don’t provide sufficient detail, which makes it difficult to identify areas in need of improvement,” he said.
“The former federal Liberal and Nationals government funded over 1300 mobile base stations across Australia to improve coverage, including on Russell and North Stradbroke islands.
“I will be applying pressure on the Labor government to match this level of investment and ensure the Redlands receives its fair share of improvements.”
Queensland Senator Murray Watt said the federal government was already acting on the issue, with funding available for parts of Redlands through the Mobile Black Spot Program.
The MBSP offers co-investment between the government and telcos to fund coverage upgrades in areas where there may not be a strong business case to do so. Applications for the program close on Wednesday, July 12, 2023.
“I strongly encourage members of parliament, local councils and residents to work together to seek funding through these grant opportunities,” Mr Watt said.
“Our October budget delivered $2.2b in funding for regional communications over five years, compared to approximately $1.3b in the previous Liberal-National government’s budget.”\
To participate in Mr Pike’s community data collection process, visit henrypike.com.au and follow the prompts.
