FAST BROADBAND DELIVERED TO TASMANIA’S WEST COAST

Families and businesses now have access to fast and affordable broadband in the regional towns of Rosebery, Queenstown and Strahan on Tasmania’s West Coast, thanks to the Morrison Government’s National Broadband Network (NBN).

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the milestone reflects the Government’s commitment to delivering fast broadband for all Australians.

“We are bringing faster, cheaper internet connectivity to the West Coast of Tasmania,” the Prime Minister said.

“We know a decent internet connection is really important for health, education and business services.”

Senator for Tasmania, the Hon Richard Colbeck, said the NBN provides the West Coast a fantastic opportunity to seize the benefits of fast broadband.

“Fast and affordable broadband will help boost our local economy and secure new investments, jobs and opportunities for the area,” Senator Colbeck said.

“In total, around 2900 homes and businesses will benefit. Residents in Zeehan are next and will be able to order a service by the end of the year.”

Minister for Communications and the Arts, Senator Mitch Fifield, said the improved connectivity will provide real economic benefits for the region. 

“Access to the NBN contributed $1.2 billion to Australia’s GDP in 2017 and this is expected to reach $10.4 billion once the rollout is complete. Fast broadband delivered over the NBN will boost economic growth on the West Coast,” Minister Fifield said.  

The Government committed $18.5 million in 2016 to see the rollout upgraded on the West Coast from satellite to a mix of fixed line and fixed wireless. This is made possible through NBN Co’s Technology Choice Program where interested parties can upgrade their technology type by paying the difference.

The funding, which includes $4.5 million from the Tasmanian Government, sees Queenstown, Rosebery and Zeehan connected by NBN Co’s fixed line technology and Strahan connected by fixed wireless.

NBN Co are making full use of the local Tasnetworks fibre link, a testament to using existing infrastructure to deliver better outcomes for consumers. Tasmania is on track to becoming the first fully connected state in Australia, with around 99 per cent of the rollout now complete. For more information visit: www.nbnco.com.au