United Central Coast pushes case for early broadband rollout

Early March saw a high level delegation in Canberra to present a compelling case for an early rollout of the National Broadband Network on the Central Coast.

Presenting the case to the Minister for Regional Australia, Regional Development and Local Government, Simon Crean MP and Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator the Hon. Stephen Conroy the delegation reported that they had received a good hearing from both Ministers.

The delegation comprised; Wyong Council General Manager, Michael Whittaker, Gosford Council Mayor Laurie Maher and General Manager Peter Wilson, Regional Development Australia Central Coast Chairman, John Dawson and Executive Officer, Anthony Dow and industry consultant, Dave Abrahams supported by the region’s three Federal Members of Parliament, Member for Shortland Jill Hall, Member for Dobell Craig Thomson and Member for Robertson Deborah O’Neill.

Some of the main points raised in the presentation by the Central Coast group were:

• An attractive return on investment for NBN Co
• Sound local community and business support
• Support commuting workers through demonstrating the value of the NBN in reducing unnecessary travel and contributing to sustainability
• Linking our schools to online education and multimedia tools
• Create inbound business investment into the region supporting local communities
• Create opportunities for work life balance with "work from home" connectivity
•  Link ageing population to quality doctors and care provides through e-health initiatives

CCBR has been told that after the meeting both Ministers had commented that they were impressed with the Central Coast’s submission.