5th Apr 2018

Morwell is a step closer to getting better broadband, with a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the construction and delivery of enhanced broadband services released to the market this week.

Acting Minister for Regional Development Jacinta Allan said the RFP was a major step forward in the project, which will trial solutions to boost broadband for businesses in, or considering investment in, regional Victoria.

A total of $7 million has been allocated for regional enhanced broadband projects in Morwell, North Geelong and Horsham, which is part of the $45 million Connecting Regional Communities Program.

The projects are helping regional businesses compete with metropolitan, interstate and international businesses.

Enhanced broadband solutions can be delivered over a range of technologies and the RFP encourages both fibre and other innovative solutions.

The areas considered in Morwell to be serviced by enhanced broadband include:

•             Morwell CBD North & South
•             Gippsland Hi-Tech School & Innovation Precinct
•             Latrobe Valley Aerospace Precinct
•             Gippsland Food Manufacturing Precinct
•             Gippsland Logistics Precinct

The rollout of the enhanced broadband pilots is expected to start in the second half of 2018, with completion in the second half of 2019.

For more information about the Connecting Regional Communities Program and the Connecting Victoria initiative, visit economicdevelopment.vic.gov.au/connecting-victoria.

Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Regional Development Jacinta Allan:

“We’re making sure regional Victorians have access to reliable broadband – to support farmers, local businesses and families.”

“Our Regional Partnerships told us that digital connectivity and access was an absolute must – we’ve listened and we’re making it a priority.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing:

“This critical project will be welcome news to local businesses, who have experienced more than their fair share of patchy service in the past. It will boost business productivity and help attract investment to Morwell.”

“We look forward to working with the successful supplier in Morwell to make this enhanced broadband project happen as soon as possible.”