National Broadband Network rolling out in Geraldton

Around 2600 households and businesses in Geraldton are a step closer to getting access to the National Broadband Network, with build preparation work underway.

In coming weeks, work will be visible in streets as pre-construction activity begins, such as the clearing of Telstra’s pits and ducts. Premises included in the build preparations sites released this week are situated in the suburbs of Tarcoola Beach, Wandina and Mount Tarcoola.

The NBN will update its online maps in coming months to inform residents when physical construction of the network has begun, and when the network will be ready for service. Detailed maps which show construction progress including green shaded areas for the ‘build preparation’ phase are available at: www.nbnco.com.au/maps

Member for Durack, Melissa Price said it was an important milestone for the area, with greater certainty for homes and businesses as they prepare for superfast broadband.

“The message for Tarcoola Beach, Wandina and Mount Tarcoola residents is that superfast broadband is on its way,” Ms Price said.

Since the election just over 12 months ago, NBN Co has more than doubled the reach of its fibre network, now passing more than half-a-million premises nationwide.

Total connections to the NBN’s various networks, including the fixed line and wireless networks and the interim satellite service stand at 290,000. Across the country, work on NBN Co’s brownfields fibre network is underway in towns and suburbs covering more than 600,000 homes and businesses.

Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the release of around 15 new areas for build preparation each month was delivering on the Government’s promise to get the rollout back on track.

“When we came into Government, one of our chief priorities has been to get this rollout done sooner, cheaper for taxpayers and more affordably for consumers” Mr Turnbull said.