The Albanese Government's commitment to greater connectivity will see up to 300,000 homes and businesses have faster and more reliable broadband through new technology deployed 600km above Australia.
A historic agreement signed between NBN Co Limited and Amazon Project Kuiper will bring city-quality broadband to Australia's hardest to reach places.
This nation-building agreement is another step towards Australia becoming the most connected continent and is targeted to help rural and remote areas of Australia.
NBN Co's agreement with Project Kuiper will deliver broadband internet services via a constellation of Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOSats), about 600 kilometres above the Earth.
This represents a major change in technology from NBN Co's existing Sky Muster satellite services and will ensure continuity of high-speed internet for people living and working in regional and remote areas.
NBN Co will consult with retail partners and regional stakeholders regarding the timing of upgrading users of Sky Muster satellites to Project Kuiper's services. Access to existing Sky Muster services will continue until the transition to the new service is complete.
Today's announcement complements the Government's continued investment in the NBN to upgrade premises currently using outdated fibre to the node technology, and the expansion of the fixed wireless footprint.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, Anika Wells:
"It is critical that a country as vast as Australia prioritises connectivity regardless of postcode.
"Providing better broadband from the cities to the regions is a key element of our plan to make Australia the most connected continent.
"Our Government embraces new technology, particularly when it helps to deliver essential services.
"The agreement between NBN Co and Project Kuiper will boost access to reliable, fast and affordable broadband internet across Australia.
"This will improve public safety, provide resilience during natural disasters and improve quality of life for all Australians, especially in regional and remote communities."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Finance, Senator Katy Gallagher:
"Right now, too many Australians in regional, rural, and remote areas don't have access to fast and reliable internet, and the Albanese Government is focused on fixing this.
"This agreement between NBN Co and Project Kuiper will help to address this longstanding issue, boosting opportunities and driving productivity for workers and businesses across the country."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy, Andrew Charlton:
"Adopting new technology is essential in ensuring our digital economy keeps pace with the world.
"People throughout Australia deserve access to world-class technology that lifts living standards and creates more opportunities.
"The Albanese Labor Government will continue to invest in technology in a way that captures the economic opportunity, ensuring the benefits are spread equitably."
