Construction has commenced to connect 1000 homes and business in the Bogan Shire to the nbn, however many still have questions about the network.
Nbn local manager Ian Scott and field engineer Craig Petersen were in Nyngan with the Sky Muster truck to answer questions about the rollout of the nbn. Photo: ZAARKACHA MARLAN
Nbn local visited Nyngan this week with the Sky Muster truck to speak with members of the community about the rollout.
The majority of questions asked were around the speed, service reliability and disconnection of the nbn network, head of nbn local Amber Dornbusch said.
“A number of people had questions about the disconnection of the existing copper network and how this would affect their existing landline phone and internet services,” she said.
“It is important for the community to be aware that once we switch on the fixed line nbn broadband access network in a particular area, residents and businesses have an 18 month window to contact their preferred phone or internet provider and make the switch.
“After this time, the nbn network will replace most existing landline phone and internet services, and the copper network will be decommissioned.”
The Sky Muster truck was on display in Nyngan to show residents how the internet would work over the satellite service.
The nbn rollout has begun in Nyngan and will be switched on in April. After this premises in the fixed line network will have 18 months to make the switch.
It is important to note that switching to the nbn is not automatic and residents will need to contact their preferred provider (over150) to place and order for their new internet and phone services.
It is important to note that in Nyngan for premises in the fixed wireless areas and Sky Muster areas, the copper network will not be switched off, meaning that homes and businesses that wish to retain their existing copper line can.
People can find out whether they are eligible to connect by using the Check Your Address function at nbn.com.au/switch.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Who do I contact about an nbn powered plan?
Nbn powered plans are sold by more than 150 different phone and internet providers. A list of providers can be found on the nbn website.
- Do I have a choice of speeds with my nbn powered plan?
Most people are not aware that for the first time in history they have a choice of speeds when switching to an nbn powered plan. This is why we recommend you talk to your phone or internet provider about the speed tiers available in your area, as well as the actual speeds you can expect to experience, particularly during peak times like the evening, to ensure you are signing up for a plan that best suits your needs.
- If I am experiencing an issue who do I contact?
You need to contact your phone or internet provider in the first instance.
- Do I have to order an nbn service? I only use a landline phone and I don’t use the internet.
In most cases you will still need to order an nbn powered plan even if you just have a landline. Once the nbn nbetowrk goes live in an area there is an 18 month window to contact a phone or internet provider.
- I have a medical alarm, is there anything I need to know?
If you have a medical alarm, or care for someone who does, it is important to register this with nbn as it helps us to identify households where support may be needed when they are making the switch to an nbn powered plan. People can register via the nbn website or by calling 1800 227 300. Registration is free.
It is also very important to talk to your device provider. The rollout of the nbn access network involves new technologies which some existing devices may not be compatible with. Your device provider will be able to advise if your device or service will work on the nbn network, and what alternatives may be available.
[contf] [contfnew] 
Nyngan Observer
[contfnewc] [contfnewc]
