7. Dr JACKIE BLUE (National) Link to this
to the Minister for Communications and Information Technology
How many private partners have indicated their interest in participating in the Government’s $1.5 billion ultra-fast broadband investment initiative?
Hon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister for Communications and Information Technology) Link to this
I am pleased to report to the House that a total of 43 groups have expressed an interest, including several significant international players and a strong selection of local companies. It shows a strong interest from the private sector to partner with the Government. The right partners will share in the Government’s vision of the transformative ability of ultra-fast broadband. They will have the credibility to step up and deliver this critical piece of infrastructure in a cost-effective manner.
Interested bidders have until 29 January next year to put their best foot forward and lodge full proposals. These will be assessed by the Crown Fibre Holdings board, who are responsible for managing the Government’s investment in local fibre companies to achieve the 75 percent ultra-fast broadband target as quickly and efficiently as possible. We expect most geographic areas to be covered, but those that are not will be subject to further tender rounds at a future date when commercial interest increases.
Clare CurranDoes the Minister have a mechanism to protect local investment in fibre networks by community-owned groups, especially in rural and provincial areas that have been frustrated by under-investment by the incumbents; if so, what?