NBN Co has announced a new initiative to boost the number of broadband connections for Australians who cannot access an existing commercial broadband service – NBN Co Satellite Support (NSS) Scheme.
The NSS Scheme will connect to up to 9,000 additional premises in remote and regional mainland Australia and Tasmania, until the expected launch of NBN Co’s Long Term Satellite Service (LTSS) in late 2015. The scheme will be delivered by wholesaler, IP Star and participating Internet Service Providers (ISPs), not by NBN Co.
NBN Co Chief Customer Officer, John Simon said:
“Bringing broadband to the most remote communities across Australia is one of NBN Co’s highest priorities. It gives residents access to e-health, distance education and internet banking, while businesses can benefit from increased productivity, reduced costs and access to new markets.”
“With high demand for broadband in regional areas, this initiative is essential to providing a reliable service to families and businesses that cannot access a commercial broadband service today,” said Mr Simon.
Judy Newton, Federal President of the Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association said:
“This is great news from NBN Co. These are common sense measures that will mean a great deal for families in the bush especially for students and teachers who need broadband for lessons. We are very pleased with this announcement.”
