As expected, the government allocated $200 million more for its ultrafast broadband (UFB) initiative in the 2010 budget.On top of the $248 million allocated last year, it takes total tax-payer funds ear-marked for the $1.5 billion Crown fibre project (exp
As expected, the government allocated $200 million more for its ultrafast broadband (UFB) initiative in the 2010 budget.
On top of the $248 million allocated last year, it takes total tax-payer funds ear-marked for the $1.5 billion Crown fibre project (expected to draw at least matching funds from private sector partners) to $448 million.
If any Crown fibre doubters such as TelstraClear were hoping for a sign of second thoughts on UFB, there were none in Budget 2010. With nigh-on half a billion now allocated, the government is in boots and all.
The budget also confirmed that a further $48 million has been allocated for ultra-fast broadband in schools and the Labour-esque national education network trial.
Communications Minster Steven Joyce, flagging the funding increase ahead of budget day, said education was an example of a service are where better broadband could reduce costs and enhance services through new media initiatives such as videoconferencing.
