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NBN Co calls in the experts to assist with strategic review

The company behind the national broadband network will begin inviting consultants to help the board's 60-day review, which was promised by Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull before the federal election.
By · 18 Oct 2013
By ·
18 Oct 2013
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The company behind the national broadband network will begin inviting consultants to help the board's 60-day review, which was promised by Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull before the federal election.

While NBN Co's board and executives are responsible for the review, now due in just 46 days, the company issued a request on Thursday for proposals to a "select number of consultants" to provide expert advice and skills. It expects to announce the winning consultancies next week.

The move marks one of the first key steps for the NBN since former Telstra boss Ziggy Switkowski was appointed chairman and chief executive earlier this month.

"The strategic review is a comprehensive exercise led by NBN Co to determine how best to provide access to very fast broadband to all Australians as soon, as cost-effectively, and as affordably as possible," Dr Switkowski said.

Construction will continue during the review. The findings will be passed to the government in early December.

The strategic review was one of four inquiries that Mr Turnbull wants done before deciding how to go ahead with the NBN.

This review focuses on NBN Co's operational and financial performance, and "timing, financials and product offers under alternative models of delivering very fast broadband to homes and businesses across Australia".

The other reviews include a 90-day study of broadband availability and quality in Australia, to be conducted by the Department of Communications, a cost benefit analysis by independent consultants, and an audit into NBN Co's governance.
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Frequently Asked Questions about this Article…

The strategic review by NBN Co aims to determine the best way to provide fast broadband access to all Australians in a cost-effective and affordable manner. It is a comprehensive exercise to evaluate operational and financial performance and explore alternative models for delivering broadband.

The strategic review is led by NBN Co's board and executives, with former Telstra boss Ziggy Switkowski appointed as chairman and chief executive to oversee the process.

NBN Co is inviting consultants to provide expert advice and skills to assist with the strategic review. This move is part of their effort to ensure a thorough and informed evaluation of their broadband delivery strategies.

The findings of the NBN Co's strategic review are expected to be passed to the government in early December, following the completion of the 60-day review period.

Yes, construction of the NBN will continue during the strategic review. The review is focused on evaluating and improving the current strategies without halting ongoing projects.

In addition to the strategic review, there are three other inquiries: a 90-day study of broadband availability and quality by the Department of Communications, a cost-benefit analysis by independent consultants, and an audit into NBN Co's governance.

The strategic review could impact everyday investors by potentially altering the operational and financial strategies of NBN Co, which may affect the company's performance and, consequently, investment opportunities in the broadband sector.

Malcolm Turnbull, the Communications Minister, promised the strategic review before the federal election. He is overseeing the process to ensure that the NBN Co's strategies align with government expectations and objectives.