Satellite phone subsidy extended
Submitted: Monday, May 15, 2006 at 12:35
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Member - Marquis
Quote from SMH
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The government has extended the cut-off date for its satellite phone subsidy and widened its eligibility.
People working in remote parts of Australia without mobile coverage can get a subsidy of up to $1,200 for a satellite phone handset.
Communications Minister Helen Coonan said the subsidy program, which would be extended beyond next year to 2009, had provided more than 7,000 phones since its inception in 2002.
The extension will be funded through the government's $29.5 million Mobile Connect program.
The government also plans to make changes to the subsidy scheme from July 1, increasing support for indigenous corporations and allowing educational institutions to access the scheme for the first time.