National Broadband Network

National Broadband Network

Mr Fletcher asked the Minister representing the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, in writing, on 7 February 2012:

What is the estimated (a) number of mobile communication towers that will need to be built as part of the rollout of NBN Co. Limited's wireless network, and (b) the likely building schedule of the towers in part (a)?

Mr Albanese: The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy has provided the following answer to the honourable member's question:

(a) NBN Co's website indicates it will require approximately 2300 sites to roll out the NBN fixed wireless network. NBN Co will aim to use existing towers where feasible. The number of new towers required for the rollout will be dependent on the number of existing towers NBN Co is able to utilise feasibly.

(b) It should be noted that the failed OPEL contract introduced by the Howard Government involved the construction of 1361 wireless broadband towers across Australia.

(c) NBN Co has indicated publicly that it plans to complete the rollout of the fixed wireless network by 2015. The timetable for the construction of new towers is dependent on the identification and acquisition of appropriate sites, and the receipt of any required planning approval from state, territory or local government authorities. Consequently, a detailed building program cannot be provided at this time.