NBN Co operates two wireless networks - the fixed wireless and Sky Muster satellite networks. Together, these networks provide essential broadband services to around 8% of premises across Australia where it is impossible to economically provide access to a cable network.
The fixed wireless network is available to around 610,000 premises, of which 350,000 have an active connection. While it has successfully delivered broadband to parts of regional Australia, there have historically been many complaints about its capacity constraints.
As well as spending $200 million per year on fixed wireless capacity upgrades, NBN Co's $300 million co-investment fund is helping fixed wireless and satellite premises to transition to fixed-line technology.
NBN Co should continue to upgrade its fixed wireless network capacity to maintain quality ahead of demand and prioritise the conversion of fixed wireless services to a cabled connection in fixed wireless areas.
NBN Co should also extend the fixed wireless network into existing Sky Muster satellite areas where this is technically practical and economically viable.