What is the National Broadband Network?


The National Broadband Network (NBN) is a next-generation broadband network designed for Australia’s future needs. It will provide faster, more reliable broadband access to all Australian homes and businesses through a mix of three technologies: optic fibre, fixed wireless and next-generation satellite.

 

  • 93 per cent of premises will have access to the NBN through optic fibre to the premises , capable of providing broadband speeds of up to one gigabit per second
  • 7 per cent of premises will have access to the NBN through next-generation, high-speed fixed wireless and satellite technologies.  Fixed wireless currently provides peak speeds of 12 megabits per second. From mid-2013 fixed wireless-connected householders will have the option to upgrade to 25 megabits per second, surpassing ADSL2+ speeds.  NBN satellite peak speeds are currently 6 megabits per second.  Satellite speeds will increase to 25 megabits per second in 2015 when the new satellites are launched by NBNCo.


The NBN will be Australia’s first national wholesale-only, open access, high-speed broadband network. This means NBN Co Limited – the company established by government to design, build and operate the NBN – will roll out the network and sell wholesale services to service providers, such as Activ8me. In turn, Activ8me offers retail services to you.

The government has established NBN Co Limited (NBN Co), to design, build and operate the NBN. NBN Co is a wholly Commonwealth-owned company.  NBN Co will remain in full government ownership until the network is built and fully operational, ensuring the government’s objectives are met.  On 28 March 2011, the Parliament passed the NBN Companies Act 2011 and the Telecommunications Legislation Amendments (National Broadband Network Measures – Access Arrangements) Act 2011. These Acts set out a clear and robust process that must be followed before the Commonwealth can privatise NBN Co.  The future privatisation of NBN Co will be subject to a rigorous process, including a review by the Productivity Commission, consideration by a Joint Parliamentary Committee and the decision of the Parliament of the day.

Activ8me is an approved National Broadband Network internet service provider and sells all National Broadband Network broadband services (Fibre, Fixed Wireless and Satellite Broadband technologies).  

Why do we need a National Broadband Network?


Australia mostly relies on an ageing copper telecommunications network to connect homes to the internet. As a result, our broadband performance lags behind many of the world’s more advanced countries.  The NBN rollout represents a significant leap in the quality and speed of broadband access currently available to most Australians, and is part of a comprehensive plan to prepare Australia’s telecommunications infrastructure for the future.

The NBN will give every Australian greater access to goods and services, no matter where they live.  It will also change the way healthcare and education can be delivered by allowing people to access more information and services online — particularly in regional and remote areas.  High-speed broadband will also promote efficiency, productivity and new opportunities for businesses, helping them to reach more customers, improve logistics and create new ways of working.

How much faster will the National Broadband Network be?


The NBN will provide all users with access to speeds greater than what many people experience on ADSL today, and will offer a more stable and reliable broadband service.

93 per cent of Australian premises will have access to the NBN through optic fibre to the premises, capable of providing broadband speeds of up to one gigabit per second. The remaining 7 per cent of premises will have access to next-generation fixed wireless and satellite technologies.  Fixed wireless maximum potential speed is 12/1Mbps.  An upgrade option to 25/5Mbps will be available from mid 2013.  Satellite maximum potential speed is 6/1Mbps.  A 25/5Mbps option is planned for 2015 when NBNCo launches its new satellites. 

The NBN will give homes and businesses access to both high download and upload speeds, which are essential for applications such as high-definition videoconferencing and the sharing of large files. It will also significantly reduce download times for content with high bandwidth requirements such as television programs, documentaries and movies.

How do I connect to the National Broadband Network?


NBN Co is offering a free standard connection to the network when the NBN is rolled out in each suburb. This includes the standard installation of a network termination device — the box which provides connection to the NBN — at the premises of all customers.
This installation means that, for most people, it will be a simple exercise of plugging existing equipment into the network termination device in order to access NBN services.  It is important to note that in some cases, charges may apply for non-standard installations.


To find out when the NBN roll out is scheduled to arrive in your area CLICK HERE
For Activ8me's NBN Fibre plans CLICK HERE

For Activ8me's NBN Fixed Wireless plans CLICK HERE
For Activ8me's NBN Satellite plans CLICK HERE