Several thousand homes across Farrer including more than 500 interim satellite (ISS) users are a step closer to fast, reliable broadband option, with the successful launch this morning of the first of NBN’s two world-class communication satellites.

Local MP, Sussan Ley, says “the launch of the Sky Muster satellite means the wait for access to the National Broadband Network is almost over for many of my rural property owners and communities”.

“Our Government recognises that better broadband really does assist in overcoming the city/country divide faced by many of us communicating in, and across, rural Australia.”

“My office has literally fielded hundreds of calls from people looking forward to accessing more reliable satellite broadband, so this is really a very important day for our future.”

NBN is investing around $2 billion on the design, construction and launch of the two satellites and for other ground-based equipment and services. Sky Muster and its sister satellite will be among the world’s most advanced communications satellites.

When operational, NBN’s satellite broadband service will cover more than 400,000 homes and businesses across Australia.

All users of the service will require a new external receiver dish and modem to connect to the satellite with a range of monthly download plans across two different broadband speed options. Download a fact sheet here on the NBN’s new Satellite Service.