Do you know of a location where you can’t get mobile coverage? Well the Abbott Government wants to hear from you.

Local Federal Member for Dunkley, Bruce Billson, is reminding the community to nominate known black spots in the electorate as part of a $100 million Mobile Black Spot Programme.

“The programme works to extend mobile phone coverage in outer metropolitan areas like ours,” Mr Billson said.

“I have noticed and other people have reported several spots in Frankston South and along the Nepean Highway between Mt Eliza and Mornington where coverage is poor and phone calls often drop out or the signal fades.

“Not only is this frustrating for people wanting to stay in touch with family, friends and their workplace, access to reliable mobile coverage is a crucial pre-condition for the many businesses using smart phone apps as a key part of their business toolkit.

“Nominations close soon and I encourage the community to nominate mobile black spots in the electorate so we can improve coverage in the area.”

Suggestions can be emailed to mobilecoverage@communications.gov.au

The Government expects to start a competitive selection process in the second half 2014, with a view to announcing the locations which have been selected for funding in the first half of 2015.

The first base stations funded under this programme are expected to begin roll out in the second half of 2015.

The Mobile Coverage Programme discussion paper can be obtained from the Department of Communications’ website at www.communications.gov.au/mobile_coverage