A high proportion of houses and businesses within the first release sites have signed up for a standard optical fibre installation at no charge.

NBN Co Head of Construction, Patrick Flannigan said locals were keen to ensure their properties were amongst the first in Australia to experience superfast broadband on the National Broadband Network.

"Across our four First Release sites, an average of 77% of eligible premises have signed up to make their property 'NBN ready'," Further detail on each site is available in the media releases below.

"Such a strong response shows the local community has overwhelmingly embraced the rollout of the network."

"Households and businesses that have returned their completed consent form will have a thin fibre optic cable installed by running a cable from the street to their premise."

"Once the local network goes live, residents with the installed fibre optic cable will be able to choose superfast broadband services from a retail service provider and arrange for their premises to be connected to the NBN. However, by signing up, there is no obligation to order new services from retailers," said Mr Flannigan.

The National Broadband Network project aims to make high-speed broadband available to all Australians - 93% by fibre, 4% via wireless and 3% via satellite, subject to final network design.

Construction of the network is underway at five locations on mainland Australia. These are Armidale, NSW; Minnamurra and Kiama Downs NSW; Townsville QLD and Willunga SA. In 2011,construction is scheduled to commence at a further 19 sites across Australia.

Residents can contact NBN Co via the freecall community information line 1800 881 816, email connectme@nbnco.com.au, or by visiting www.nbnco.com.au

Media Inquiries:

Rhonda Griffin
0428 134 401

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