More regional Australians now have access to 21st century communications than ever before with the National Broadband Network (NBN) rollout reaching 80 percent complete outside of major urban areas.
NBN Co Limited (nbn) reached the milestone after activating 26 fixed wireless sites over February, providing broadband access to over 5,800 homes and businesses.
Minister for Regional Communications, Senator Bridget McKenzie, welcomed the announcement and said the milestone is a real win for regional Australians.
“Reaching 80 percent complete outside of major metropolitan areas is a significant achievement. These new fixed wireless sites activated over February will help to connect thousands of regional homes and businesses in these communities with the world,” Minister McKenzie said.
“It’s always exciting to see more areas switching on to the NBN. These sites are the latest of more than 1,780 across the nation providing families and farmers with access to high-speed telecommunications.”
“This new infrastructure is essential to connecting families and friends, ensuring they can take advantage of opportunities like distance education and working remotely with ease.”
“We’re working hard to reduce the digital divide that many regional Australians have experienced for too long. So far over 1.4 million premises in these areas are enjoying the benefits of having an active connection to the NBN.”
nbn’s fixed wireless service is providing high speed broadband to many areas that typically have had poor access to fixed broadband services in the past.
nbn is committed to improving network technologies available and enhancing the customer experience throughout the rollout.
For information about where the network is available and how to connect visit: www.nbnco.com.au/rollout