The State Government has launched the Kimberley Broadband Solutions Project, providing 16 wireless hotspot sites and three fixed satellite and portable mobile satellite communication systems, to key locations within the Kimberley region.
The State Government has launched the Kimberley Broadband Solutions Project, providing 16 wireless hotspot sites and three fixed satellite and portable mobile satellite communication systems, to key locations within the Kimberley region.
The full text of an announcement from Industry and Enterprise Minister Francis Logan is pasted below
Towns and remote communities in the Kimberley will soon have access to an affordable, high-speed broadband service under a new $6 million project.
Industry and Enterprise Minister Francis Logan today launched the Kimberley Broadband Solutions Project, a State Government initiative that has been developed and managed by the Department of Industry and Resources.
Mr Logan also announced that leading communications firm, NewSat Ltd, would be the major facilitator of the project.
"This project will deliver self-sustainable, affordable and accessible high-speed broadband to more than 16 towns and Aboriginal communities, and three national parks and conservation reserve sites in the Kimberley region," he said.
"It will ensure that remote communities receive better access to distant education opportunities, online banking and e-business facilities.
"The project will further enhance the delivery of key Government agency services to the region, and make a significant contribution to the State's strong economic prosperity and regional development."
The Minister said NewSat Ltd would provide 16 wireless hotspot sites, as well as three fixed satellite and portable mobile satellite communication systems, to key locations within the Kimberley region.
Mr Logan said the State Government understood the importance of continually improving the delivery of Government services to remote areas within the State.
"This project reflects the State Government's commitment to improving the welfare of Western Australian communities," he said.
"Once the project is completed, Kimberley residents will have access to a range of facilities, including distance education, online banking and e-business."
The project is also supported by the Department of Housing and Works, Kimberley Development Commission, Department of Environment and Conservation, WA Police, Department of Local Government and Regional Development, State Library of WA and the Commonwealth's Coordinated Communications Infrastructure Fund.
It is expected to be completed by the middle of 2008.
It will bring improved telecommunication services to Broome, Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Halls Creek, Kununurra, Wyndham, Bidyadanga, Yiyili, Oombulgurri, Djarindjin and Lombadina, Warmun, Wirrimanu, Yungngora, Looma and Camballin, Ardyaloon and Kalumburu.
Broadband infrastructure will also be provided for the Purnululu National Park and Conservation Reserve, the King Leopold Ranges and Conservation Park and the Windjana Gorge National Park.