Media Release
Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy
Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy
Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Digital Productivity
Broadband roadshow rolls into Darwin
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today encouraged people from Darwin to attend a free event on how the Australian Government is improving access to broadband.
The Australian Government is committed to ensure that all Australians enjoy the benefits of broadband services, no matter where they live, Senator Conroy said.
This roadshow is a great opportunity for the people of Darwin and the surrounding regions, particularly small businesses and Indigenous Community Councils, to meet representatives from my Department and discuss their individual situation one-on-one.
The Australian Telecommunications Users Group (ATUG) is holding a free reception as part of its 2008 Regional Roadshow on Monday 8 September at the Novotel Atrium, from 5 pm to 7 pm. RSVP to patrick.sinclair@atug.org.au or call 02 9495 8905.
Representatives from the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy are attending to provide information and advice on the Australian Broadband Guarantee, Satellite Phone Subsidy Scheme, Do Not Call Register and e-security.
People can find out about Australian Government initiatives and use the Governments online Broadband Service Locator which determines what broadband services are available to any household in Australia, Senator Conroy said.
If they are unable to access a broadband service, they may be eligible for a subsidised service through the Australian Broadband Guarantee program, Senator Conroy said.
The Australian Broadband Guarantee provides broadband access to Australian households and small businesses that are unable to access metro-comparable services. In the last Budget the Rudd Government allocated the program $270.7 million over the next four years.
The Australian Government has also committed to invest up to $4.7 billion in a National Broadband Network (NBN) covering 98 per cent of homes and businesses. Enhanced services will also be made available for the most remote 2 per cent that may not be covered by the NBN.
Residents of Darwin and the surrounding regions who are unable to attend the reception can find out more information about the Australian Broadband Guarantee at www.dbcde.gov.au/abg or by phone 1800 883 488 (free call).
ends
Date: 5 September 2008
Contact: Tim Marshall 0408 258 457
