In September 2020 NBN Co announced a new $4.5 billion strategy for the next stage of network growth.
Around $3.5 billion will pay for 2 million homes to upgrade from FTTN to FTTP technology by the end of 2023. The upgrade program is being led by customer demand, so users have the option to request a high-speed connection.
The investment also announced a further
$400 million for Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC) capacity upgrades and $100 million for FTTC upgrades that will enable access to NBN Co's higher-speed plans before premises are connected directly to fibre.
A further $50 million will be spent on improving speeds for customers on FTTN connections. In addition, $700 million has been allocated to business broadband upgrades, and $300 million to improve broadband access and quality in regional areas.
Given the new strategy and accompanying roadmap and policies, there is a sufficient upgrade pathway to high-speed broadband for businesses and consumers that want it, as long as the current momentum of investment keeps up with user demand and data growth each year.
NBN Co has increased the transparency of its operating performance, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Continuing to be open about its plans, objectives and targets will help ensure it delivers against public interest objectives and that the project remains on track.