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A new mobile tower is planned for the Cadia district in NSW with the funds to come from Optus, Newcrest Mining's Cadia Valley Operations, Infigen Energy and Huawei.
The area has no dedicated mobile tower and the construction is aimed at helping address network coverage.
A statement from Optus said potential locations for the tower were being investigated. It was expected to be live by the end of 2018.
A second tower is being built under the federal government's Mobile Black Spot Programme.
{loadposition sam08}Optus Network Planning manager Vin Mullins said: "This community site is great news for the Cadia Valley, which will move from having intermittent coverage in some areas, to having a dedicated resource to provide residents and visitors with reliable and fast coverage for mobile calls and SMS as well as mobile data for internet browsing.
“The contribution and commitment by Newcrest Mining and all parties involved provide a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when community and enterprise work together.
“Optus’ programme of regional investment is aimed to reduce, and eventually remove, the number of areas in regional Australia with limited or no mobile reception.
"This type of funding partnership for a tower is a first for Optus, and our door always remains open to other communities who wish to improve their access to telecommunications.”
Cadia general manager Peter Sharpe said: “Cadia is pleased to contribute $200,000 towards the construction of two new towers in the Cadia District.
"While improved telecommunications will provide benefits for hundreds of landholders in the area, the real win is showcasing that working together as a community, through the Cadia District Enhancement Project, can achieve a long-term positive legacy that will benefit the region for decades to come.”
Local resident Graham Brown who is the Cadia District Enhancement Project Chairperson, said: “This is a significant injection towards improving our community infrastructure. The construction of the towers will increase communication on our farms and assist our agricultural businesses.
"It will ensure we feel connected with the wider community and support our local emergency services. We are very grateful for the regional focus and support of Optus and Cadia in assisting our local community.”
Infigen Energy development manager Megan Richardson said: “Improved access to mobile phone reception and mobile data is not just a boost for local residents and the community, but also offers a vital service for agribusinesses and local operators.
"Infigen is grateful for the opportunity of joining the funding partnership with $15,000 and is pleased to be supporting the community local to the Flyers Creek Wind Farm development project.”
