OPTUS COMMITS $3.5 MILLION TO IMPROVE MOBILE COVERAGE IN THE LATROBE VALLEY

Optus is continuing to invest in regional Victoria and today announced a $3.5 million commitment to improve the 4G Plus mobile network in Latrobe Valley.

Planning has started to build new sites and upgrade infrastructure to improve coverage and provide faster download speeds for residents and businesses in Traralgon North, East Moe, South Morwell, South West Traralgon, East Morwell and West Traralgon.

Optus’ State Manager for Victoria, Peter Kirk said, “Optus is committed to improving the 4G Plus network and providing faster internet download speeds for people living, working, and visiting the Latrobe Valley.”

“Our customers have told us they want better indoor and outdoor coverage when they are at home and away and that’s why we are investing $3.5 million to build new sites and upgrade current infrastructure.

“This investment will provide better indoor and outdoor coverage and fewer call drop outs in town and also along key transport links including the Princes Highway and Princes Freeway.”

Optus recently built and activated one new site at Moe Central. Today’s announcement forms part of a $1.5 billion commitment by Optus to expand and strengthen its network in regional and metro areas this year.

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester welcomed Optus’ investment in the Latrobe Valley.

“Mobile phones have become an essential part of everyday life, with many medical clinics and schools using apps and SMS to confirm appointments and contact customers,” Mr Chester said.

“Even tasks such as claiming Medicare rebates and accessing fixtures for junior sport now rely on access to a smart phone.

“I commend Optus for choosing to upgrade their service in the Latrobe Valley and know the local community will appreciate access to a faster and more reliable service.”

The Optus network handles over 45 million calls and 80 million SMS messages each day and carries 6,000 terabytes of data each week. The growing demand for mobile coverage is why Optus is continuously raising the bar when it comes to improving mobile services in regional Australia.

The Latrobe Valley is enjoying the benefits of Optus’ superfast 4G Plus network, which now reaches 96.1% of Australians.

Media contact:

Candice Lester

Optus Corporate Affairs

(02) 8082 7850

media@optus.com.au