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Published on 28 August 2025
Poor Mobile Coverage Raising Safety and Economic Concerns in the Upper Hunter
Upper Hunter Shire Council has raised concerns about the ongoing lack of reliable mobile phone coverage across parts of the Shire, stressing the risks this poses to community safety and the local economy. Mobile phone service is particularly unreliable along sections of the Scone to Merriwa Road and the Golden Highway, with coverage often weak or non-existent. Council has highlighted that this situation creates significant risks during emergencies such as bushfires or medical incidents, when immediate communication is vital. The issue also impacts small businesses, farmers, and residents who rely heavily on mobile networks for market access, logistics, and customer connections. With the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone transmission project set to commence soon, Council has noted that traffic volumes on the Golden Highway will increase further, making strong and reliable mobile coverage even more important. While recognising government investment through initiatives such as the Mobile Black Spot Program, Council has emphasised that significant gaps remain. Council is urging further investment and prioritisation of rural and remote mobile infrastructure to ensure communities are not left behind. Mayor Maurice Collison said that reliable mobile coverage should not be viewed as a luxury for urban centres, but a basic requirement of modern life. “With the REZ projects commencing and significant truck movements scheduled for this corridor, we know the State and Federal Governments have invested in programs to improve coverage, but there are still critical black spots in our Shire that put people at risk and limit opportunities for local businesses,” Mayor Collison said. “Council would welcome the chance to meet with government representatives to identify key problem areas and work towards lasting solutions. Our community deserves safe, reliable connectivity.”