Australian Govlink Issue 2, 2013 | Page 65

61 THE NATIONAL BROADBAND NETWORK IS COMING… The National Broadband Network (NBN) rollout represents a fundamental change to Australia’s telecommunications infrastructure. The Liberal government is currently conducting a review of the NBN and how to provide this service in the most efficient and economical way. The NBN Co has been tasked with installing connections to homes and businesses across the country. What this means is that if you want to continue making phone calls and using the internet through a landline service you will need to get connected to the NBN. When the rollout reaches your area, the NBN Co will contact you to arrange installation of a small box in your home or business called a Network Terminating Device (NTD) that will connect you to the network. To find out when the NBN will be available in your area visit www.nbnco.gov.au or call the NBN Co by telephone on 1800 023 076. Once the NBN Co has connected you to the network, you will need to identify a Retail Service Provider (i.e. organisations such as Telstra, Optus, IINET, TPG) capable of delivering the telecommunications services you require. What should you do? When the new NBN fibre service is rolled out in your area you will be contacted by a number of Retail Service Providers (RSP) looking to sell you their telephone and broadband services. By John Fleming, General Manager, ASIAL. Before signing up with an RSP and arranging an installation date, you should: • Advise the RSP that you have a monitored security alarm or medical system; • Seek confirmation from the RSP that they are able to support your existing security alarm or medical system using the UNI-V voice port – if they can’t you will need to find a provider who can. Note: you may incur additional costs; and • Contact your security provider for assistance in ensuring that there is a smooth transition and your alarm system continues to function as designed. NBN – Initial copper disconnections to commence in early 2014 Initial copper disconnections will begin in May 2014. Below is a list of the initial areas being disconnected. AREA POSTCODE Armidale 2350 Minnamurra 2533 Kiama Downs 2533 Brunswick 3056 It is important that you follow the steps above before signing up with an RSP, if you don’t you may place your home, family or business at unnecessary risk. South Morang 3752 Whilst the NBN Co is responsible for connecting a fibre connection to your home or business, all of the wiring within your home or business remains your responsibility. Remember, before choosing an RSP make sure you contact your security provider. Willunga 5172 Mundingburra 4812 Aitkenvale 4814 Willunga South 5172 Deloraine 7304 George Town 7253 Kingston Beach 7050 Note: There are alarm systems that enable transmission using IP technology. To find out more contact security provider. Sorell 7172 To find an ASIAL member near you visit www. asial.com.au Triabunna 7190 Stieglitz 7216 St Helens 7216 Click http://nbnco.com.au/ industry/service-providers/ network-rollout/disconnectioncommencement.html for information on the copper disconnections For any queries about your particular circumstances or requirements, please consult your licenced security service provider or your RSP. ASIAL makes every effort to ensure that the information it provides is accurate and complete. ASIAL will not be responsible or liable for any loss resulting from the incompleteness or inaccuracy of the information. Diagram courtesy of NBN Co. Govlink Issue 2 2013