This article summarises the presentation given to the author at the TelSoc NBN Futures event held in Melbourne on 31 July 2019.  The author spoke in favour of retaining NBN Co in public ownership, at least for the medium term and until a long term plan and evolution pathway has been established that will ensure that Australians have affordable access to world’s best broadband service and that delivers social and economic inclusion.  Dr Holmes argued that there were positive reasons supporting public ownership, and also that it was the least worst of the options available.

This Report has been developed by the TelSoc National Broadband Network (NBN) Futures Group, drawing on substantial work since early 2019 to examine the current state and desirable future of broadband services in Australia. The purpose of the Group and this Report is to ensure Australia’s broadband infrastructure and services continues to develop in a financially responsible and timely manner, delivering value, economic benefit and new services to all Australian residents in all locations and in all economic circumstances. Broadband infrastructure, including the NBN in particular, represents National Critical Infrastructure providing essential services important for the development of a digital economy and online society. All Australians should benefit to the maximum extent in realising the social and economic potential of broadband. Large, long-term investments and programs that address the demand side, as well as the supply side, of broadband require a clear long-term vision and plan (the National Broadband Strategy), supported by a robust bipartisan commitment that endures beyond electoral cycles. The Report is not such a Strategy but is a major contribution towards it. It is addressed to all stakeholders, especially to the Commonwealth Government which has leadership responsibility, and to industry organisations whose involvement is important for success.

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