Landmark Arnhem Land Fibre Project Completed

Landmark Arnhem Land Fibre Project Completed

Telstra today announced the completion of one of the largest optic fibre and broadband infrastructure projects undertaken in recent times - the Arnhem Land Fibre Project.

The $34 million project, which received funding from the Northern Territory Government and Rio Tinto Alcan and valuable support from the Northern Land Council, connects nine Indigenous communities and the township of Nhulunbuy to the nation's fibre optic backbone.

Brett Riley, Group Managing Director for Telstra Country Wide, said the project is providing high-speed broadband and services equivalent to those in our largest cities to some of Australia's most remote communities.

"The project which was completed on time and on budget saw 800km of fibre optic cable laid across fragile terrain, in difficult climatic conditions between Jabiru and Nhulunbuy.

"It has connected approximately 10,000 people living in some of the most remote parts of Australia to high-speed broadband and a range of other advanced communications services.

"With the completion of the fibre project, people living in Northern Arnhem Land now have access to technology which has the potential to be life changing. It provides real opportunities for significant improvements in health and education outcomes, along with improved access to entertainment options.

"Small businesses operating in this remote part of Australia can also benefit with the ability to download large files and access materials needed to do business in regional areas," he said.

The project has been recognised by Industry bodies, winning a prestigious international Award at the World Communications Awards and National Awards from the Australian Telecommunications Users Group, Australian Institute of Project Management and Australian Engineering Excellence.

Mr Riley also highlighted Telstra's ongoing commitment to investing in communications infrastructure in regional and remote Australia.

"Telstra is providing high-speed mobile broadband to more than 99 per cent of the Australian population over the Next G network.

"These upgrades demonstrate that Telstra is investing in local communities across the country to bring faster speeds and improved technology wherever possible," Mr Riley said.

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Media contact: Jane de Gault: 0419 818 956
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SOURCE: Telstra