Federal member for Page Kevin Hogan said almost 1300 premises in the Northern Rivers and Clarence Valley are ready to join the superfast era with the NBN Co activating its fixed wireless network in the region, offering Internet speeds more than twice as fast as city-based ADSL connections.
“The rollout is happening faster than ever since the Coalition Government took office and trials have started to test other technologies which will dramatically lower the cost and time it will take to deliver fast broadband to all Australians,” he said.
The activation of fixed wireless towers in the Clarence Valley and Northern Rivers in recent weeks shows the Federal Government is delivering on its pledge to get the NBN rollout back on track and ensure all Australians can access fast, affordable broadband.
| Location | No. of Premises |
| Bonalbo | 240 |
| Homeleigh | 193 |
| Lawrence | 419 |
| Woodenbong | 257 |
| McLeans Ridges | 188 |
| TOTAL | 1297 |
The fixed wireless network utilises advanced 4G technology to deliver speeds of up to 50 megabits per second, enabling families, farmers and businesses across rural Australia to access a range of new broadband applications including high definition video streaming. Very competitive (and even uncapped) plans offered by internet service providers have boosted data allowances and speeds, opening the door to the digital world.
Since the election the fixed wireless network has grown exponentially, now reaching more than 280,000 homes and businesses in rural and regional Australia compared to just 39,000 premises in September 2013.
Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the Government’s plan to deliver better broadband will mean that those in rural Australia are better off under the Coalition.
“The rollout is happening faster than ever since the Coalition Government took office and construction trials have demonstrated we can dramatically lower the cost and time it will take to deliver fast broadband to all Australians,” Mr Turnbull said.
The Coalition Government’s multi-technology approach to the NBN rollout will save up to $30 billion, will see upgrades delivered six years sooner than under Labor and will avoid Internet retail bills increasing by up to 80 per cent.
Potential customers can see the areas served by NBN Co’s fixed wireless service at www.nbnco.com.au/maps and can order a new service by contacting a retail service provider. A list of providers is available on the NBN Co website at www.nbnco.com.au/connect-home-or-business/check-your-address/choose-a-provider.html.
