NBN Co is embarking on an ambitious endeavor to strike agreements with the governing bodies of approximately 50,000 strata buildings across the nation. Their objective is to facilitate subsidized upgrades to fiber-optic connections.
The primary focus of this initiative by the network builder is on apartment buildings where individual units currently have fiber-to-the-node (FTTN) or fiber-to-the-curb (FTTC) connections only. NBN Co aims to transition up to 700,000 apartments from their existing connections to full-fledged fiber-optic networks. However, it’s important to note that the approach differs from the one employed to incentivize homeowners to upgrade.
Presently, residential customers in areas covered by FTTN/C networks can qualify for a “free” upgrade to full fiber if they subscribe to a service offering speeds of 100Mbps or higher and maintain it for a minimum of one year.
However, the offer varies for apartment owners. NBN Co is seeking to engage with the body corporates responsible for the entire building rather than dealing with individual unit owners. The proposal is for the entire building to be upgraded to fiber-optic connections simultaneously, at a cost of $275 per apartment.
Ken Walliss, Executive General Manager of Products at NBN Co, explained, “Installing NBN fiber in a building with multiple apartments differs significantly from connecting a standalone house. NBN Co has adjusted its approach to ensure feasibility and affordability.”
Under this program, NBN Co will establish area switch agreements with the body corporate of each building. This agreement will facilitate the deployment of fiber-optic connections to every apartment within the building, with the cost starting at $275 per apartment, inclusive of GST. For example, connecting a 10-apartment building would amount to $2,750.
This approach enables apartment occupants to independently choose an internet service provider and subscribe to a plan that suits their individual needs. Importantly, residents are not obligated to take advantage of the newly installed fiber-optic connectivity.
It’s worth noting that apartment owners will have the flexibility to opt for plans with speeds as low as 50Mbps or even below, depending on their preferences and requirements.
To assist in determining eligibility for this upgrade, NBN Co has introduced a search tool to assess the suitability of an apartment block for this program.