Optus has splashed out $42.2 million to build 37 new mobile sites in Tasmania to improve call quality and download speeds in the state.
The network upgrades include seven mobile sites in Hobart, five in Devonport, 10 in Launceston and three on the east coast, bringing the total number of mobile sites in Tasmania to 151.
Optus chief executive Allen Lew said improving Tasmania's mobile network was a priority for the telco.
"In July last year we committed to building 35 new sites by July 2019. I’m proud to say that we’ve delivered on that target of 35 sites as well as an extra two locations in just 12 months. The introduction of new sites is testament to our commitment to building the best possible mobile network across the state," Lew said.
"We firmly believe that competition is not only good for the economy, but also good for the customer with these new sites providing customers with choice and better value.”
He added that Optus would spend another $4.5 million on building eight more sites by March next year, located in Cradoc, Magra, Salamanca Place, Austins Ferry, Campania, Romaine West, Jericho East and Doctors Rocks.
“Our investment doesn’t stop after these new sites are delivered, and we look forward to further announcements in the future,” Lew said.
“With its breathtaking scenery and rugged landscape Tasmania can be a challenging location to provide mobile coverage. We believe that whether customers live and work in the cities or smaller towns and regional locations, they should have access to the same network services and coverage.”
Earlier this year, Optus announced it had crossed the 10 million mobile customer milestone, 6.33 million of which were 4G customers. The telco claims its network reaches 96.9 percent of Australia's population.
The telco's infrastructure was in the spotlight earlier this year when Optus designed and rolled out the network supporting the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
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