City's digital needs highlighted

Digital infrastructure a high priority for Federal candidates

Investing in digital infrastructure and connectivity in the City of Logan should be a key commitment for candidates in the upcoming Federal election.

Acting Mayor Jon Raven said Logan City Council had commenced a program to advocate for better mobile and internet services.

But Council cannot make improvements in isolation as telecommunications is an Australian Government responsibility.

Digital infrastructure is important not only for a modern economy but also for community connectivity.

“In this day and age, no one should have to walk to the end of a driveway or drive up the nearest hill to get reception,” Councillor Raven said.

“Our businesses are also stepping into the global economy but can’t achieve their potential if technology lets them down.”

The city’s infrastructure needs are highlighted as part of Council’s ‘Stand up for Logan’ program in the lead-up to the federal election on Saturday, May 21.

Cr Raven said the city’s rapidly growing population demanded the timely delivery of important projects to ensure liveability, economic growth and sustainability.

“People have been working from home more than ever. In order to thrive, businesses and the community need high-speed internet.

“Council has a business case that identifies what digital infrastructure is needed to bring us up to speed.

“Now we need our Federal counterparts and the telcos to deliver those solutions as our population approaches half a million people.

“We want more fibre cables in the ground and better mobile and wireless technology to fix today’s issues and look ahead to tomorrow’s opportunities.”

Cr Raven said election candidates should be willing to stand up for Logan.

“Every vote counts. This is our moment to elect candidates who will stand up for us,” he said.

Logan small business owner Emma Cobb said her Beenleigh-based gym experiences ongoing issues with NBN connectivity, and she would welcome upgrades across the city.

“It’s inadequate and sporadic at best. If we do have weather events like storm or cloud cover, it disrupts our NBN unit,” she said.

Such disruptions affect the keyless entry, CCTV system and other aspects of her business.

“Our business is hinged on it working correctly and consistently,” Ms Cobb said.

The City of Logan Digital Infrastructure Assessment and Business Case was developed with the support of the Queensland Government.

It was also endorsed as a key priority in the City of Logan Advocacy Strategy 2021-2024.