Optus will spend $25 million on its mobile network in Tasmania, challenging rival Telstra’s dominance of the state.

The company will roll out more than 80 new mobile sites across the Apple Isle over the next 24 months, increasing the number of its mobile sites to more than 100.

The move will triple Optus’ current investment and provide 45 new towns with more mobile competition.

Tasmanian Premier Lara Giddings said telecommunications were vital to keeping regional Tasmania connected.

“This announcement will increase the choice for Tasmanians who need to stay connected for work, education, or simply to keep in touch with their family,” Giddings said.

Optus said the move will mean more than 96 per cent of the Tasmanian population will have access to its voice and data coverage.

The plan also includes upgrades of existing mobile sites in Devonport, Hobart and Launceston, and the expansion of the company’s 3G mobile broadband service.

Extract from zdnet.com.au