Senator Jana Stewart
Labor Senator for Victoria

The Hon Michelle Rowland MP
Minister for Communications

The Hon Gayle Tierney MP
Victorian Minister for Regional Development

The Albanese Government is improving mobile and broadband connectivity for the Mitchell Shire community of Kobyboyn, thanks to a new Telstra base station delivered through the Regional Connectivity Program (RCP).

The 4G macro cell base station in Victoria’s Highlands will support access to essential digital services including telehealth, education, skills and training and emergency communications, and enhance business and e-commerce opportunities.

The Commonwealth contributed $346,500 to the project, which received co-contributions from the Victorian Government and Telstra Limited.

The RCP is part of the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, providing $656 million to improve mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience in rural, regional and remote communities.

The Kobyboyn project was delivered under Round 1 of RCP funding which provided $115.8 million for 129 projects across Australia. A further $200 million has been allocated for additional RCP rounds.

For more information on the Better Connectivity Plan, visit: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/better-connectivity-plan-regional-and-rural-australia

For more information on the Regional Connectivity Program, visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/rcp.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:

“Every Australian deserves access to fast, reliable broadband, regardless of postcode or circumstance.

“The Albanese Government is delivering on its commitment to narrow the digital divide, with a focus on regional and rural communities, just like Kobyboyn.

“Local households and businesses will benefit from improved broadband and mobile services – benefits being replicated across the country as we deliver our Better Connectivity Plan.”

Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney:

“This project will make a positive impact on the Kobyboyn community and we are excited to see it come to life.

“The improved connectivity will not only mean more Victorians can stay connected with family and friends, but will also provide the region with easier access to health and education services, as well as business technologies.”

Quotes attributable to Senator Jana Stewart, Senator for Victoria:

"Bridging the digital divide is key to improving liveability across regional Victoria and driving growth for local businesses and economies.

“This project will make a meaningful difference to the community of Kobyboyn – and is a great example of Commonwealth-State collaboration, working alongside industry, to boost regional connectivity.

“I look forward to seeing the positive flow-on effects this has on the community and the entire region.”