Critical communications for emergency services in the Upper Hunter will be boosted with the expansion of the government radio network.
The NSW Telco Authority has commenced enhancements to existing radio infrastructure at Rossgole and Quirindi which will result in new network coverage across the region.
NSW Telco Authority Managing Director Kate Foy said government radio is used by emergency and essential services to communicate day-to-day operational matters as well as during emergencies.
“The NSW Telco Authority is expanding the footprint of the state’s critical communications network to ensure public safety agencies have an enhanced and more reliable network when serving and protecting the community,” Ms Foy said.
Member for Upper Hunter, Michael Johnsen MP, welcomed the works.
“Expanding the footprint of the government radio network in the Upper Hunter further enables our public safety agencies when keeping people and places safe,” Mr Johnsen said.
“Law enforcement, emergency and essential services around Rossgole and Quirindi will be able to use a single, integrated radio network to coordinate responses during critical incidents once completed.
“This upgrade will deliver improved critical communications for citizens in regional NSW.”
The infrastructure improvement works are part of the Telco Authority’s Critical Communications Enhancement Program, which is increasing government radio coverage from less than 35 per cent to over 80 per cent of NSW through construction, upgrade and integration of sites.
By expanding the government radio network to existing sites such as Rossgole and Quirindi, the Authority is also reducing duplication of infrastructure and delivering more efficient management of resources to NSW taxpayers.