Australia’s national broadband network (nbn) was launched in 2009 with the (maybe idealistic) goal of providing high-speed internet access across the country.
More than 15 years later, the project has been plagued by delays, cost overruns and political interference. Australia is also lagging behind other developed nations in internet speeds and reliability.
As other countries plan or refine their own broadband strategies, I think Australia’s experience offers valuable lessons on what to do – and what to avoid.
Setting clear, long-term goals
One of the most important lessons we can learn from Australia’s nbn rollout is the need for clear, long-term planning. Initially, the nbn was designed to provide fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) connections to 93% of Australian homes and businesses by 2020. The remaining 7% was to be covered by fixed wireless and satellite services.
However, political changes led to a shift in strategy, introducing a multi-technology mix that relied heavily on existing copper infrastructure. This led to slower speeds, reliability issues and a fragmented network, which we Australians are bearing the brunt of now.
If I were a country designing a broadband network, I would establish a clear long-term vision and commit to future-proof technology, such as full-fibre connections. Frequent policy changes result in inefficiencies and compromise the quality of service.
Avoiding political interference
Political influence has significantly impacted the nbn rollout here in Australia. After a change in government in 2013, the original FTTP model was largely abandoned in favour of a multi-technology mix. The mix included fibre-to-the-node (FTTN) connections that used outdated copper wiring.
That decision was driven by political priorities rather than technical considerations. This led to uneven service quality and increased costs for those of us using the network.
To prevent similar setbacks, I would suggest other countries ensure that broadband infrastructure projects are managed by independent bodies, with decision-making based on technical and economic factors rather than political interests. Long-term infrastructure planning should prioritise national benefits over short-term political gains.
Cost transparency and accountability
Australia’s nbn was initially estimated to cost A$29 billion but has now exceeded A$51 billion. Delays, changes in technology and inefficiencies have driven up costs in a pretty major way.
I think governments and regulators should enforce transparent budgeting and cost assessments from the outset. Independent oversight bodies can help ensure that spending is efficient and that changes to project scope or technology are well justified. I also suggest that regular public reporting can improve trust and accountability.
Prioritising digital equity
A major issue with the nbn has been unequal service delivery. Some urban areas received high-speed fibre early on, while many regional and remote communities were left with slower and less reliable technology. Recent research has shown that political motivations likely influenced which areas received priority, exacerbating the digital divide.
To avoid this, I believe rollout plans should be clear and equitable, ensuring that rural and underserved areas receive the same quality of service as urban centres. Investing in future-proof technology in all areas, rather than relying on lower-quality stopgap solutions, is crucial for long-term digital inclusion – something which has become a real issue here in Australia.
Planning for emerging technologies
The Australian government has continued to invest in upgrading the nbn, with a recent commitment of up to A$3 billion to expand fibre access. However, the rollout has struggled to keep pace with emerging technologies such as satellite broadband services, including Elon Musk’s Starlink.
Other countries could take a lesson from us and consider how evolving technologies might impact demand and competition. While fibre remains the gold standard for fixed broadband, satellite and wireless options provide viable alternatives for remote areas. Governments should incorporate these technologies into their plans, so a national broadband infrastructure is accessible to everyone.
Establishing independent regulation
The privatisation of national broadband infrastructure is another consideration. Australia’s nbn remains government-owned, with debates over potential privatisation. However, financial struggles – including a net loss of A$1.4 billion in 2022-23 – mean it’s unlikely there would be many willing buyers anyway.
The lesson to be learned here is to evaluate whether broadband networks should remain publicly owned, be privatised or follow a hybrid model. Regardless of ownership structure, strong regulatory oversight is essential to ensure fair pricing, competition and service quality of an essential utility.
Perhaps an independent regulator is the way to go in future models.
Building a future-proof network
Australia’s experience highlights the risks of short-term decision-making in broadband infrastructure. Frequent changes in strategy, reliance on outdated technology and lack of transparency have led to inefficiencies and frustration.
By learning from the nbn challenges we faced in Australia, other governments could build more resilient, high-speed broadband networks that support economic growth, social inclusion and digital innovation for years to come. We’ll be watching jealously.
Key takeaways
- Australia’s nbn rollout faced significant delays, cost overruns, and political interference, resulting in lower internet speeds and reliability compared to other developed nations.
- Key lessons encourage clear long-term planning, avoiding political influence in decision-making, and ensuring accountability in broadband projects.
- Future-proofing technology, prioritising equitable service delivery and establishing independent regulation are crucial for a broadband network that supports economic growth and digital inclusion.
Marshall Thurlow is Director and Founder of Orion Marketing Pty Ltd. He is a digital marketer with expertise in SEO, website design, content marketing, and project management.
