LOUISE MARKUS MP
LIBERAL MEMBER FOR MACQUARIE
27 May 2016
Around 4,300 premises in Blackheath and Mount Victoria are a step closer to getting access to the National Broadband Network, with fixed line construction now underway.
Member for Macquarie, Louise Markus MP said it was an important milestone for the area, with greater certainty for homes and businesses as they prepare for upgraded broadband.
“The message for Upper Mountains residents is clear better broadband will be here this year,” Mrs Markus said.
Final network designs are now complete enabling nbn subcontractors to begin laying out fibre and building cabinets to house the network electronics. Taking fibre and electronics closer to homes means the nbn‘s internet speeds are four to 10 times faster than existing ADSL services.
Joining Mrs Markus in Blackheath today, Minister for Communications Mitch Fifield said the Turnbull Government’s changes to the nbn had delivered broadband upgrades sooner, and kept internet bills affordable.
“In nearby Katoomba, 3000 homes and businesses are already able to connect to the nbn network. Premises in southern Katoomba were the first to be switched on in the region last week. The switch-on in Katoomba has enabled construction workers to begin work in Blackheath and Mount Victoria,” Minister Fifield said.
Between June to August 2016, the areas of northern Katoomba, Leura, Wentworth Falls, Medlow Bath, Bullaburra and Lawson will progressively be switched over to the nbn.
“We have taken action to get the nbn rollout back on track in this area after years of misinformation and frustration under Labor,” Minister Fifield said.
“In just the past year, the nbn has more than doubled its national coverage from 1.16 million premises last July to more than 2.5 million today and last week the network chalked up its one millionth customer.”
“The nbn will completely change the way people connect in their homes and conduct their businesses. It is very important this area isn’t forced to wait several more years for Labor’s gold-plated broadband that isn’t affordable,” Mrs Markus said.