TELSTRA has begun rolling out its 5G network in the Latrobe Valley and has completed upgrades at a number of mobile sites in Moe, Morwell and Traralgon.
Telstra has upgraded four mobile sites in the Latrobe Valley to 5G, with another site in Traralgon expected to go on-air within the week.
The telco is undertaking detailed planning to carry out upgrades in Morwell and Traralgon.
The works are not disrupting fixed line, ADSL or NBN services. Telstra is encouraging people to use of these technologies if they are working or studying from home.
Telstra regional general manager Loretta Willaton said upgrades were ahead of schedule in Traralgon.
Ms Willaton said Telstra customers had received text message notifications about the work to allow them time to plan ahead.
“We know there’s never a perfect time to schedule upgrade work but when we’re finished it’ll mean better services for our customers and means Traralgon can experience all the best 5G has to offer,” Ms Willaton said.
“This work has been planned for several months and our 5G upgrade work is carefully scheduled around a national rollout program.
“Any changes to the rollout program in certain towns or cities may mean they miss the upgrade window.”
Ms Willaton said there were are a number of sites in Traralgon providing some overlapping Telstra coverage.
“So even though we may be working on one, there are a number of others that are continuing to provide service,” she said.
Telstra customers will need a 5G capable device and plan to use the service, but the network upgrade will also improve 4G capacity and speeds in the area. There are now more than 3100 5G sites on-air in more than 160 cities and towns in Australia.
Telstra has made a commitment to roll out its 5G network to 75 per cent of the population by the end of June.
