Optus has increased its mobile phone coverage in Western Australia, bringing 49 new or upgraded base stations online since March 2000.

Keir Preedy, Director Mobile Network Systems and Programs, said Optus was dedicated to improving the reach and quality of its mobile service.

"We are continuing to invest in our Western Australian mobile network and will install another 37 new or upgraded facilities including base stations and 1800Mhz upgrades by March 2002.

"In addition to increased coverage, Optus's focus is on continuous improvement to call quality, which means reducing call congestion and call drop-outs," he said.

According to the Australian Communications Authority (ACA) Performance Monitoring Bulletin for March 2001, Optus has the lowest call drop-out rate in Western Australia compared with other carriers.

"We recognise the need to service metropolitan and rural areas and are continually striving to provide service to new locations wherever possible," Mr Preedy said.

Optus has increased its capacity in Perth Central, Redcliffe and Nedlands West as well as regional expansion in Denmark, Donnybrook, Cowaramup and York.

These additional base stations will provide coverage to tourist areas including the winery region to the north of Margaret River and the Ascot Waters Estate racecourse. Coverage has improved between Margaret River and Dunsborough (along the Bussell Highway) and in-car coverage has improved along the Great Eastern Highway between Hardy Road and Tonkin Highway.

With 3.7 million mobile customers, a third of the nation's mobile subscribers are using the Optus network.

For more information visit Optus's Network Coverage.

For more information contact:
Donna Clatworthy
Cable & Wireless Optus
Tel: 02 9342 8343