Shire of Harvey signals for improved internet access to Telstra and NBN Co, calls on residents for help

The Shire of Harvey has signalled a need to Telstra and NBN Co for improved and more affordable internet access, calling upon its residents for help. It comes after the Shire conducted a survey to identify why residents were not signed up to “the best internet service” available to them, being the latest NBN SkyMuster Plus plan. Only 78 per cent of Shire residents are connected to the NBN, which can provide internet speeds of up to 1000Mbps through the use of fibre-optic cables as oppose to copper-based cables. A total of 52 per cent of residences with fixed wireless access — internet access designed for rural and underserved areas — are connected to the NBN, with a further 26 per cent of satellite-connected residences also not connected. The Shire is set to continue its survey, which president Paul Gillett said should allow the organisation to better brief Federal and State representatives as well as apply for grant opportunities. “The Shire is seeking initial feedback from residents and businesses to help us improve internet and phone services and increase connection levels,” he said. “We have received a strong response to the survey and encourage local residents and businesses to submit responses so we can better establish patterns and key gap areas.”