The connectivity of remote Homelands in Central Australia has been improved with five new mobile hotspots installed and 44 existing connections maintained.

Residents in Petyale, Ankweleyelengkwe, Welere, Urrermerne, and Payeperrentye can now use the hotspots to connect with relatives and friends from home.

Alice Springs-based Aboriginal technology organisation, the Centre for Appropriate Technology (CfAT), undertook the work with the Northern Territory Government investing $300,000 in the project.

Member for Gwoja and proud Arrernte, Arabana, and Gurindji man, Chansey Paech, said CfAT is crucial for building a skilled workforce on Country and improving connectivity, which is life-changing for mob by enhancing social benefits and access to essential services.

"The Centre for Appropriate Technology undertakes important work, building the skilled workforce on Country and improving connectivity in remote locations," he said.

"Having connectivity is life-changing for our mob, and something no one should go without, especially in remote locations.

"On top of the social benefits, connectivity is incredibly important for people to apply for work, be informed about health warnings and call for help when travelling between Homelands and communities."

CfAT designed and developed the technology, providing technical training to ten local Aboriginal staff for installation and maintenance.

Signal from distant towers is amplified by the mobile hotspots, improving reception from one bar to two or three bars, meaning residents can now reliably make calls or download data.

The innovation addresses the Territory's remote connectivity challenges, enhancing safety and connectivity for tourists, road users, and remote Aboriginal homelands.

Centre for Appropriate Technology CEO, Peter Renehan commended CfAT's Indigenous workforce and their ability to complete the project.

"We are extremely proud that our Aboriginal Technology workforce team was able to successfully undertake the site assessment surveys and construct, plus carry out the installation of 5 new Mobile Telephone Hotspots in Central Australian Homelands," Mr Renehan said.

"On the back of initiatives like this, CfAT is aiming to increase the number of Aboriginal people it employs in its Aboriginal Technology Workforce Team as we continue to expand the range of technology services we provide in Central Australia.

"We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Northern Territory Government to undertake maintenance on Mobile Telephone Hotspots in 2024."