COMMUNITIES across the region are fed up with ongoing issues with poor mobile phone coverage and slow internet and Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson is calling on the NSW Government to step in and partner with telecommunications providers to fix the problem.

Mr Anderson raised the issue of Werris Creek and Manilla mobile phone service in parliament, calling on the government to bring back programs like the Connecting Country Communities Mobile Black Spot Program and the Regional Connectivity Program.

“Reliable connectivity shouldn’t depend on your postcode, but far too many people across our region are left frustrated, angry, and climbing the nearest hill just to send an email,” Mr Anderson said.

“I’ve been working with communities like Werris Creek and Manilla to push for better connectivity, but more needs to be done.

“The former state Coalition Government stepped up in 2018 to boost the regional network through the Connecting Country Community Black Spot Program. This program partnered with telcos to identify mobile blackspots and install and upgrade towers.

“The program delivered 10 new base stations across the Tamworth electorate including in Barraba, Attunga, Moonbi, Oxley Vale, Woolomin, Piallamore, Westdale and more.

“That program was cut at the last election, but I’m calling on the government to reinstate the funding. The closure of the 3G network has not helped the problem with people experiencing less service and slower internet since.

“I’ve written to the Minister for Regional NSW asking for a solution for the region. I’ve also taken Werris Creek’s issues to parliament. I’ll keep pushing because the digital divide is becoming a regional disadvantage and that’s not good enough,” he said.