The NSW Telco Authority has put the call out for information from industry stakeholders into the future of the state government's critical communications radio network.
The authority is seeking information to determine the scope required to construct, operate and maintain the network’s services moving forward.
“Through the Critical Communications Enhancement Program, the government radio network will grow from 180 to approximately 400 sites over the next few years increasing to 700 sites when fully built across metropolitan and regional NSW,” NSW Telco Authority managing director Kate Foy said.
“This significant expansion will be a major piece of infrastructure and will almost double the size of the current government radio network. The program aims to deliver world-class critical communications services to our public safety and law enforcement agencies well into the future.”
The authority will recieve $230 million over four years as part of the NSW government’s 2018-2019 budget to improve the radio network.
The radio network currently services the operational communications needs of 44 of the state government's agencies and essential services, including emergency services and law enforcement, utilities and power providers, local councils and state and federal government agencies.
“With an expansion of this size, we need to scale up how we operate, maintain and deliver network services to address the increased scope of the operating environment,” Foy said.
“We’re seeking feedback from industry to inform our request for Tender on potential improvements and cost-effective solutions.”
The request for information opened yesterday and closes on 12 September 2018.
Earlier this month, the NSW government revealed its plans to develop a technology and innovation precinct in Sydney, stretching from Central station to Eveleigh, which already hosts the Australian Technology Park. It expects the precinct will create 10,000 new jobs by 2036.
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