NBN roll-out under way

The Pilbara-wide roll-out of the National Broadband Network has begun, with the start of permanent works in Karratha this month marking the first step of its construction in the State’s north.

Regional NBN contractor WBHO Infrastructure last week started construction of the high-speed broadband network in Nickol, Millars Well and Gap Ridge, following a delay of several months on the original installation date.

Work on the fibre-to-the-node technology will be completed in the rest of Karratha in coming months, followed by Wickham, Point Samson, Port and South Hedland, Wedgefield, Roebourne, Dampier, Newman, Paraburdoo and Tom Price, before moving on to the Kimberley.

The roll-out will cover about 23,5000 premises across the Pilbara, with the first areas to receive the service expected to be switched on towards year’s end.

NBN Co WA corporate affairs manager Ebony Aitken said construction in the Pilbara had been delayed to streamline works across the North West, with Karratha being the first location.

“The start of the NBN roll-out in the Karratha region is really exciting, it’s the first area in WA’s north, ultimately signalling the commencement of construction throughout the Pilbara, Kimberly and Gascoyne,” she said.

City of Karratha Mayor Peter Long said the NBN would bring significant benefits to residents by significantly speeding up download rates.

“It’ll be terrific to have that, not only for businesses but also for students,” he said.