NBN Co today outlined the principles which will determine which access technology will be deployed to connect communities to the National Broadband Network (NBN).

These broad principles pave the way for the full transition to a multi-technology network and support the company’s commitment to roll out the NBN at the least cost to taxpayers and as quickly as possible.

NBN Co will deploy a range of technologies and utilise existing fit-for-purpose network infrastructure to deliver the minimum data rates required by the Federal Government’s broadband policy.

The multi-technology principles mean that most households and businesses:

already served by the Optus or Telstra Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC) cable networks, will receive fast broadband over an upgraded HFC network;

where the NBN fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) network has been deployed or is in advanced stages of being built, will remain part of the FTTP rollout; and,

where the NBN fixed wireless or satellite networks are earmarked for deployment, will remain part of the Fixed Wireless or Satellite rollout.

All other communities are likely to receive fast broadband over fibre-to-the-node (FTTN) and, in the case of multi-dwelling units such as apartment blocks, fibre-to-the-basement (FTTB).

NBN Co’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Bill Morrow, said:

“In order to optimise the benefits of a digital economy we must first, and foremost, address the under-penetration of broadband access as soon as possible. Universal Access, sufficient speeds, affordability and the time to build are all key factors necessary for us to achieve these benefits and the MTM guidelines were developed with these in mind.

“Furthermore, these principles will give greater clarity to local communities and service providers about how the NBN is being rolled out and the criteria underpinning the choice of technology in each community.”

Mr Morrow said NBN Co was committed to reviewing the principles on an ongoing basis to ensure the company was making the best use of the taxpayers’ investment and identifying opportunities to incorporate technology advancements.

Also under consideration is a fibre-on-demand product. Work is underway to develop guidelines so that individuals or businesses with specific speed requirements can purchase fibre up to their premises. Equally so, NBN will work with small communities that choose to co-fund FTTP if they are in an alternative technology area.

The incorporation into the NBN of copper and HFC assets is contingent upon the successful conclusion of negotiations currently underway with Telstra and SingTel Optus.

NBN Co’s strategic goals include connecting eight million premises to broadband and achieving annual revenue of $4 billion by 2020.

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