The competitive assessment process for the Peri-Urban Mobile Program (PUMP) is now open, with the Morrison Government encouraging all eligible applicants to apply.
Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said the Australian Government is committed to improving mobile connectivity for communities living in bushfire-prone areas on the edge of our major cities.
“PUMP will fund the delivery of new and improved mobile coverage to bushfire prone areas on the peri-urban fringe,” Minister Fletcher said.
“Up to $15 million in grant funding is available to Mobile Network Operators and Mobile Network Infrastructure Providers to deploy new mobile coverage infrastructure in these areas.”
Recent bushfires have shown the importance of reliable mobile services during extreme events. Projects funded under PUMP will help people remain connected during an emergency, including to vital information services and loved ones, easing anxiety and saving lives.
Potential applicants are encouraged to work with communities, local governments and emergency services organisations to identify areas that would benefit under the program.
Mobile Network Operators and Mobile Network Infrastructure Providers have until 18 January 2022 to register and submit pre‑application documentation. Final applications are due by 18 February 2022.
The Grant Guidelines are available from GrantConnect at grants.gov.au.
Further information on the program and application process, including information on eligible areas under the program, can be found here.
Image Source: The Australian
