Broadband upgrade promises stronger regional connectivity

A $3 billion investment will upgrade the remaining fibre-to-the-node (FTTN) sections of the National Broadband Network (NBN), with NBN Co contributing more than $800 million to the project.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said keeping NBN Co in public hands is crucial to ensuring affordable internet access for all Australians.

“Keeping Australians connected at an affordable price is a vital national project,” he said.

“Rolling out high-speed internet builds Australia’s future.”

The government has confirmed NBN Co will remain in public ownership, aiming to provide faster and more reliable broadband to homes and businesses across the country.

The FTTN upgrades are expected to provide higher-speed internet to about 622,000 additional premises by 2030.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the government is committed to ensuring Australians have access to world-class broadband services.

“This investment will see the final fibre-to-the-node premises reap the benefits of faster broadband coming to 622,000 homes and businesses,” she said.

The government has already invested $2.4 billion in previous upgrades, delivering faster broadband to 1.5 million premises, including 660,000 in rural and regional areas.

According to government figures, the program could contribute $10.4 billion to GDP over the next decade.

Modelling by Accenture suggests households could save more than 100 hours and $2,580 per year in reduced travel time and costs due to improved connectivity.

More than 94% of premises on the fixed-line network – over 11 million homes and businesses – will have access to speeds of up to 1 Gbps once the upgrade program is complete.

More complex premises may require alternative solutions, offering speeds of up to 400 Mbps.