Media Release

NBN to facilitate closer ties with Asia

The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today welcomed the release of the Australia in the Asian Century White Paper, saying that the National Broadband Network will play an integral role in strengthening the Australian economy, including through engagement with Asia in the decades ahead.

“The White Paper highlights the importance of the National Broadband Network in supporting our engagement with Asian countries, whether it’s supporting education and business, or investing in and taking advantage of new technology,” Senator Conroy said.

The rollout and completion of the National Broadband Network to all Australians will:

• Enable schools, TAFEs, and universities to use the NBN’s fast and reliable broadband service so that their students are able to access the very best teachers, experts and resources from across Australia, Asia and the world.
• Make it easier for students to undertake Asian studies and Asian language courses as part of their education, boosting understanding and person-to-person links through high-definition video conferencing.
• Be a major boost for Australian business. It will strengthen Australia’s productivity performance; and enable all Australian companies to have better access to Asian markets, unlocking opportunities and providing greater access to new knowledge, regional collaboration, and innovation.
• Open up new technology markets and ensure Australia can take full advantage of the potential of cloud computing.

“Like Japan, Singapore, and South Korea, the Gillard Government is investing in super-fast broadband because we understand how fundamentally important the digital economy is for Australia’s continued economic growth and social wellbeing,’’ Senator Conroy said.

“For Australia to embrace the Asian century and the opportunities it presents, the NBN is essential. It is a core part of the Gillard Government’s productivity agenda and is a platform that will underpin our engagement with Asian countries and allow Australia to realise the enormous potential of our region.”

Date: 28 October 2012
Contact: Adam Sims 0408 258 457 (Office of Senator Conroy)