There are fresh calls today for the Federal Government to fix mobile phone black spots around Fullerton Cove and Fern Bay.
A new mobile tower was promised by the Coalition in the lead-up to the July election.
However it appears the area will miss out yet again, with no funding allocated in Round 1 of the Mobile Black Spot Program and no indication it's being considered in Round 2 or Round 3.
Residents have been lobbying for better mobile reception for years, with many having to travel to other areas to make calls. Residents petitioned the government saying the lack of telecommunications infrastructure also poses a risk to the community and visitors in times of emergency.
A report from the Australian National Audit Office tabled in parliament last week found the black spot program didn't deliver value for money to consumers, while a series of "awareness forums" conducted by the Government only benefited Coalition-held seats. The report was also critical of the administration of the Black Spot Program, finding more than 80% of locations announced for new mobile phone towers were in Liberal or National electorates.
Labor member of Paterson, Meryl Swanson says needs make good on its election promise.
"If it was good enough to promise it leading into the election it is absolutely good enough to deliver it now after the election and they just need to do what they said they're going to do and build the tower," she said.
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| Meryl Swanson |
