Conroy knocks the NBN knockers

Stephen Withers
Tuesday, 28 April 2009 13:26

Business IT - Technology

The NBN also has the potential to increase telecommuting, reducing transport-related emissions. (A major decentralisation of workplaces could increase emissions thanks to less-efficient heating, cooling and lighting, but given the distances many people travel to work it seems highly likely there will be a net reduction. In any case, there is potential to replace some of the fossil fuels used for transport with electricity generated from renewable sources.)

Health care is another important application for the NBN. Conroy pointed to one suggestion that the sector could account for as much as one quarter of the data flowing across the NBN.

Apart from improving the efficiency of regional doctors, universal broadband could support the in-home care of older Australians, reduce emergency department visits by up to 40 percent and the length of hospital stays by up to 60 percent.

Another "big ticket" item for the government is education.

"The National Broadband Network will underpin the Government's Digital Education Revolution," said Conroy.

Not only will it provide benefits for schools, it will increase opportunities for tertiary distance learning and support research projects such as the Australia Telescope Compact Array.

"The National Broadband Network is an essential requirement for a comprehensive digital education environment and improved opportunities for Australian students and teachers," said Conroy.
 
"It will break down barriers, providing benefits for students, teachers, parents and other members of the community, regardless of where they live or which school they go to."

What about pricing? Please read on.