The extension will give mobile and broadband infrastructure providers more time to work with communities and groups to improve connectivity across Australia
The closing date for Round 3 of the Regional Connectivity Program and Round 7 of the Mobile Black Spot Program is now 11 August 2023, shifting from 12 July 2023, delivering a one month extension for applicants.
The programs are designed to deliver meaningful digital connectivity solutions for regional, remote and First Nations communities, with $160 million available across the two streams:
- $110 million under Round 3 of the RCP, including indicative funding for telecommunications infrastructure solutions in First Nations communities in eligible areas across Australia ($15 million) and in Central Australia ($10 million); and
- $50 million under Round 7 of the MBSP, including indicative funding of $7.5 million for solutions that provide new mobile coverage in First Nations communities.
The combined total of $32.5 million earmarked for First Nations communications is an important step towards achieving Target 17 of the Closing the Gap initiative, which aims to ensure First Nations people have equal levels of digital inclusion by 2026.
The extension of the closing date responds to requests from telecommunications providers and state governments and will allow applicants additional time to review the standard funding agreement for the RCP which is available on GrantConnect now with the standard agreement for MBSP to follow shortly.
Applicants, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), communities, councils, Members of Parliament and other interested parties are encouraged to work together to develop multi-carrier solutions.
The programs are part of the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia which is providing more than $1.1 billion to rural and regional communities – including $656 million to improve mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience in rural and regional Australia.
To apply before the new closing date, visit: grants.gov.au (search for Grant Opportunity GO6185).
More information
- Read about the Better Connectivity Plan