The National Broadband Network Co (NBN Co) has announced preliminary site work start dates for Second Release sites of the NBN in New South Wales, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory.

 

Works are due to start across nine locations in a rolling schedule, with preliminary site work due to get underway this month in Armidale and Coffs Harbour, NSW. NBN Co plans to roll out the network in a series of modules, each covering around 3000 premises. As previously outlined, the next sites are a mix of extensions to works at First Release Sites and a number of additional sites announced last July.

 

The announcement of start dates in NSW, Qld and the ACT follows the recent signing of a construction contract with Silcar for detailed design and construction in these areas. Negotiations are currently progressing with construction companies to undertake work in the other states and the Northern Territory.

 

It is estimated that the average time from the start of preliminary works to the activation of first services will be around 12 months. Additional onsite planning and preparation works will be necessary before building begins.

 

Scheduled preliminary site work start dates are outlined in the following table.

 

Location Preliminary site works start date
Coffs Harbour August 2011
Armidale NSW August 2011
Townsville Qld September 2011
Kiama township and Jamberoo NSW September 2011
Toowoomba Qld October 2011
Gungahlin ACT October 2011
Riverstone NSW November 2011
Goodna/Springfield Lakes November 2011
Aspley- Brisbane metropolitan area November 2011