By Danielle Kutchel
Businesses in Cranbourne South will be among those hitting the web at high-speed, with a new deal set to improve internet connections.
The State Government has struck a deal with the NBN Co that will see broadband upgrades delivered in 120 locations across Victoria over the next two years through the $550 million Connecting Victoria program.
The State is kicking in $73 million as part of the agreement.
The first round of upgrades will see more than 1000 Victorian businesses in 12 locations get access to faster and more reliable fibre internet.
The NBN will build infrastructure for improved fibre connections free of charge, with businesses only paying to connect to the service.
The State Government is subsidising the infrastructure to minimise costs for businesses, leaving them to only pay for their internet plan.
As well as Cranbourne South, the first areas to benefit from the roll out will be Pakenham North, Pakenham South, Dromana, Lara, Colac, Hamilton, Portland, Wonthaggi, Inverloch, Warragul and Benalla.
Businesses in these areas will be able to contact NBN to order the new connections from September 1, with work expected to be completed within 90 days of each order.
As part of the Connecting Victoria program, the Government is calling for community feedback on places where better broadband and mobile connectivity is most needed.
For more information or to submit feedback, visit vic.gov.au/connectingvictoria.
