A new infrastructure initiative is set to bring high-speed fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) broadband connections to more than 19,000 homes and businesses across 70 towns and suburbs in regional Victoria. The $133 million program represents a partnership between nbn co. and Connecting Victoria, aiming to enhance digital connectivity for regional communities.
The project involves extending fibre optic cables directly into individual premises, replacing existing fixed wireless or copper-based connections. This technology enables download speeds of up to one gigabit per second (Gbps), significantly improving internet reliability and capacity for residents and local businesses.
Initial upgrades are scheduled for completion in 2027, with the broader rollout continuing through to 2030. In the first phase, over 2,000 properties in Ararat, Donald, Castlemaine, Horsham, Mortlake, Sebastopol, and Wendouree will transition from fixed wireless services to fibre connections.
This local investment is part of a larger national effort supported by a Commonwealth funding package announced in January 2025. The total federal commitment amounts to $3.8 billion, which includes an additional $800 million contribution from nbn co. This initiative builds upon previous infrastructure work that has already delivered improved connectivity to more than 100,000 homes and businesses across over 180 towns and suburbs in Victoria through the Connecting Victoria program.