Fears surrounding NBN privatisation could be put to rest this week, with the federal government set to propose a law to keep the network publicly owned.
As reported by the Sydney Morning Herald, the government’s move will result in a debate with the Liberals-Nationals Coalition about the future of Australia’s internet infrastructure. NBN Co is currently a government-owned entity overseeing more than 8.5 million customers.
It’s not the first time the current federal government has addressed the topic of NBN privatisation. In 2022, Communications Minister Michelle Rowland committed to the network’s public ownership.
“The government has stated that it will retain NBN Co in public ownership for the foreseeable future, expand full-fibre access to more homes and businesses and to ensure the NBN delivers for consumers and facilitates productivity,” Rowland said as reported in the Australian Financial Review.
NBN Co also dismissed privatisation plans in 2023, placing its focus on network improvements. It followed an unsuccessful attempt to revise wholesale pricing in line with a potential sale.
Despite increasing its revenue last financial year up to $5.5 billion, NBN Co reported a net loss due to its continual investment in network infrastructure. It’s hoped that public ownership will keep prices from ballooning out. However, the Coalition has criticised the government over the NBN price increases earlier in the year.
NBN 50 is the most popular plan among Australians and was one of the speed tiers impacted by price increases. Without discounts, NBN 50 plans cost upwards of $75 per month. The government will propose a bill today aimed at keeping the network publicly owned, followed by debate over the details.
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