| NBN decision – stunning but correct |
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| Tuesday, 07 April 2009 15:03 |
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The Internet Industry Association applauds the Government’s decision to proceed with the establishment of a new company to build and operate Australia’s new super fast National Broadband Network. “When has a government EVER made this type of commitment to telecommunications and the internet?,” asked IIA chief executive, Peter Coroneos. “This is both momentous, and visionary in its scope. It offers a major economic stimulus. We could be seeing the multiplier effects of this investment decades from now.” See for example, the Brookings study, The $500 Billion Opportunity: The Potential Economic Benefit of Widespread Diffusion of Broadband Internet Access (2001) “In 2006 the IIA called for a nation-building approach to broadband. The ALP picked up on our targets and turned that into a policy.” He said the Government’s decision was unexpected due to the extension of the original specification to now include broadband to the doorstep. It commits to a plan that will underpin our economic future. The new goal connects 90 percent of all Australian homes, schools and workplaces with broadband services with speeds up to 100 megabits per second - 100 times faster than those currently used by many households and businesses upgrades the original specification. All other premises in Australia will benefit with next generation wireless and satellite technologies that will be deliver broadband speeds of 12 megabits per second. It means up to 25,000 local jobs every year, on average, over the eight year life of the project. Most importantly, it delivers on the widespread call for a true separation between the infrastructure provider and retail service providers. This competition means a better and fairer infrastructure access for service providers, greater retail competition, and better services for families and businesses. The new NBN will also spur innovation in content services including education, entertainment and health with major environmental benefits through the move to digital delivery and enhanced telecommuting. The IIA welcomes the Government’s bold flexible approach and backs its approach to funding through the Building Australia Fund and the issuance of Aussie Infrastructure Bonds (AIBs), to enable all households to share in the rewards. About the IIA The Internet Industry Association (www.iia.net.au) provides policy input to government and advocacy on a range of business and regulatory issues, to promote laws and initiatives that enhance access, equity, reliability and growth of the Net within Australia. |
| Last Updated on Wednesday, 08 April 2009 09:47 |