About the project
$100 million from the Regional Digital Connectivity program has been allocated to improve regional internet connectivity through multiple providers and using a range of technologies, suitable for rural and regional locations.
Initially, the target locations of Wagga Wagga, Parkes, Dubbo, the Cobar corridor (including Nyngan, Trangie, Cobar and Narromine), and the communities of Wamboin, Bywong and Sutton were chosen for funded internet improvements.
From 2022, any regional community that relies solely on satellite internet is eligible for consideration through the program. Our priority will be to deliver new or upgraded internet connectivity, and to pilot emerging technologies, such as low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, to assess the best options for delivering internet in hard-to-service areas.
Click to enlarge: Map of regional locations to receive internet connectivity improvements (PDF 110.42KB)
Objectives
We want to deliver a metropolitan equivalent internet service for regional communities and businesses, to improve the price, speed and quality of service they enjoy.
We want communities and businesses in rural, coastal and remote locations to run effectively, share in business expansion opportunities, use cloud-based services, access online teleconferencing programs and education opportunities, work from home, and stay in touch with friends and family.
Updated focus
In early 2022, the focus of our internet connectivity program was updated in response to significant investment from telecommunications providers and the private market in regional areas.
To avoid duplication of infrastructure and ensure value for taxpayers’ money, funding was redirected into new priority areas, including:
- Fixed wireless or fixed line internet upgrades for rural and regional communities on satellite services
- Improving current internet service offerings in remote communities with a small population base and challenging topography
- Pilot of emerging technologies such as low-earth orbit satellites in communities located in hard to service geographic areas.
Grant funding opportunity
There are currently no grant funding opportunities open.
In late 2022, a $60 million grant funding opportunity was released to the market to improve internet connectivity across regional NSW where there is limited or no internet availability.
Applications closed on Monday 21 November 2022, and assessment is now finalised.
For more information about the funding opportunity and the grant guidelines see the NSW Government grants and funding finder website.
We expect to announce all successful grant recipients in the coming months, once contract negotiations are finalised.
Our projects underway
nbn regional NSW fixed wireless
Delivering fast, reliable fixed wireless internet for homes and businesses in 46 locations across regional NSW.
Cobar corridor internet connectivity
Delivering fast, reliable fixed wireless internet for homes and businesses around Cobar, Nyngan, Trangie, Narromine and Warren.
Wamboin, Bywong and Sutton connectivity
Delivering reliable, high-speed fibre-to-the-premise internet for the communities of Wamboin, Bywong and Sutton.
Parkes Special Activation Precinct connectivity
Establishing reliable, high-speed internet in the Parkes precinct for businesses setting up or expanding their operations.
Contact us
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For more information and updates about digital connectivity projects underway in regional NSW, contact us and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.