Cells on Wheels and Vehicle as a Node technology get a boost in the NSW Budget
The NSW Government announced a boost to communications for emergency services and communities during natural disasters in the
2023–24 NSW Budget.
The NSW Government announced it is investing $26 million into new emergency services communications upgrades in the 2023-24 NSW Budget.
NSW Telco Authority will deliver four new broadband Cells on Wheels (COWs) through an $11.3 million investment to boost disaster resilience and response and recovery programs.
Self-powered and mounted on trailers, the COWs can be deployed to disaster areas to provide internet and mobile phone coverage (wi-fi and 4G) during and after emergencies.
A further $11.3 million investment in 2023–24 will also begin the rollout of fit-for-purpose Vehicle as a Node technology to the NSW Rural Fire Service fleet. The upgrades will provide seamless internet connectivity to firefighting vehicles, enhancing communication and operational efficiency.
The NSW Government also announced it will invest:
• $3.2 million in products providing community members and emergency services access to timely, accurate and actionable hazard warnings
• $3.3 million on early warning detection systems for fires and floods, such as smart sensors, to better protect communities
• $10 million in hazard reduction teams as part of bushfire season preparations.