Telstra regional general manager Steve Tinker said the 5G network had numerous benefits.

"Bringing Telstra 5G to Ararat means faster download speeds, better capacity on the mobile network even at the busiest times, and lower latency connectivity which provides a platform for the future of technology and innovation," he said.

"The benefit of these upgrades is they'll also improve the underlying network capability, boosting capacity and speeds for Telstra's existing 4G customers as well."

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Mr Tinker said speed tests showed download speeds had increased from 20-120 megabits per second to 300-400 megabits per second.

He said Ararat was well placed to profit from becoming part of the network.

"We're aiming to provide it to some of the regional towns that we think will benefit with this," he said.

"Ararat, along with Horsham, Ballarat and Hamilton, are lucky enough to be the towns in the area to get 5G in the early parts of the rollout.

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"I think it just opens up opportunities. It caters for a lot more people when they come to visit Ararat, and it also helps the innovators invent things, and create more jobs. It provides a platform for them."

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Dr Tim Harrison said the improvements would increase Ararat's livability and help businesses.

"Ararat now has the same mobile connectivity you may expect in capital cities and it means our region is now playing on the same field, putting us right in the frame for smart, high-tech jobs," he said.

"We know there's an appetite for people looking to relocate to the Grampians region. With the Telstra 5G network, those reconsidering their living options can continue to stay connected and work remotely with faster technology. This helps make Ararat a prime location for those looking for a tree-change.

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"One of Council's top priorities is improving connectivity, which will help drive innovation and encourage more investment in our region."

Mr Tinker agreed the network would make Ararat a more inviting destination for people moving from the city.

"Sometimes people think 'what am I going to get when I head to regional areas?' And that's why from a Telstra point of view we invest a lot in Western Victoria and into regional Victoria," he said.

"Hopefully it will help create high-level jobs and boost the economy in these areas. It can only help."

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Grampians Office Services owner Greg Day switched to the network soon after it became available. He said it was a significant improvement.

"The connection speeds are incredibly fast," he said.

"This is a game-changer for my business which relies heavily on mobile data while I'm out visiting clients or installing software whilst working remotely."

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