It is well documented fact that Australian internet speeds are comparatively slow, when compared with other developed countries, both within our region and around the world. Unfortunately, efforts to build a world class fibre to the premises National Broadband Network have been undermined by politics, with Australia’s internet users losing out.

At a day-to-day level, this means a highly frustrating experience for many small businesses. Forced to relyupon ADSL2 services provided over copper wires, many businesses endure unsatisfactory download speeds and very slow upload speeds. This is a serious drain on productivity and a constraint on the adoption of new technologies.

Thinking big picture, the absence of universal high speed connectivity across the community stifles innovation. Think of the new services and technologies that couldbe developed by local businesses, and the global supply chains that Western Australians could tap into, if we were connected at the same speed as businesses overseas.

As an isolated capital, in a strategically critical position to engage with Asia, the development of globally competitive internet connectivity should be a priority of a Plan for WA Jobs.

A plan for WA jobs should include a commitment to lobby for the development of a universal fibre to the premises National Broadband Network. In the absence of a Federal Government commitment to this infrastructure, the State Government should fund the rollout of fibre technology in industrial lands and key business districts.

Sign our petition and download our plan for WA jobs here.