An elected Liberal and Nationals Government will invest $5 million to improve mobile coverage for residents, businesses and visitors across the Upper Hunter and Yetman districts of the New England electorate.

Shadow Minister for Communications, Melissa McIntosh MP said the announcement will address connectivity issues in areas like Gundy, Bunnan and Rouchel, where residents have been calling for better mobile coverage.

“Digital connectivity is now an essential part of how we work, learn, stay safe and remain in contact with family and friends,” said Mrs McIntosh.

“The Coalition will continue to invest in telecommunications infrastructure as part of our plan to strengthen local communities and to get Australia back on track.”

“Unfortunately, the Albanese Government has no interest in improving telecommunications in regional, rural and remote Australia demonstrated by their sparse funding commitments and botched closure of the 3G network”.

Nationals Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said there are still areas across New England where people either have no service, or where the existing service has disappeared.

“Being able to ring 000 where there is a bushfire is an essential need for everybody. Anyone stranded on the side of the road needs to feel safe by having phone coverage,” Mr Joyce said.

“Mobile coverage should not be determined by what your postcode is.

“This announcement today does not deliver a magic wand to all our communication issues, but it is a great start,” said Mr Joyce.

This commitment is part of the Liberals’ and Nationals plan to keep our regional communities connected and get Australia back on track.