$217 million boost for emergency communications

The $217 million investment will expand the Government Radio Network (GRN) and build a Public Safety Network for Emergency Services Organisations.

The funding will enable 70 agency radio networks to be consolidated into one, allowing vital information to be shared more efficiently and better protect first responders.

The GRN will be expanded across:

• Southern NSW to provide greater coverage to Holbrook, Tarcutta, Gundagai and Albury
• Northern NSW to provide improved coverage to Glen Innes, Inverell, Tenterfield, Ben Lomond, Moree and Warialda.

Network coverage will expand to other regions including the North Coast, Griffith and Wagga Wagga.

The grants will also see the Critical Communications Enhancement Program accelerated to enable the GRN to reach 96% of populated areas in NSW.

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the investment will strengthen communities and better protect first responders.

“The radio network played a critical role in protecting communities and supporting the Rural Fire Service, Police, Fire and Rescue, Ambulance and the State Emergency Service during the recent bushfires,” Mr Dominello said.

The funding will enable the NSW Telco Authority to accelerate the Critical Communications Enhancement Program to reach 96% of populated areas. This funding is in addition to the more than $401 million allocated to the upgrade of the GRN since 2016.

Learn more about the Government Radio Network and Critical Communications Enhancement Program.