It has been touted for months but now rural customers may begin to see better data connection.
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NBN Co announced on Monday that it would expand data allowances for its regional and rural satellite users. The new ‘Sky Muster Plus’ plan is now earmarked for delivery starting next year.
The new ‘Sky Muster Plus’ will boost downloads beyond the 25Mbps preset speed. It will also alleviate data troubles by removing email, short web browsing and some software updates from the monthly collation.
Winchendonvale farmer and rural connectivity spokesperson Bob McCormack has welcomed the announcement.
“If it’s going to help us keep connected, then it’s all very good,” said Mr McCormack.
“Having a reliable phone and being able to connect to the internet is one of the major ways the city and country are divided.”
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With fewer burdens on the data cap, there will be greater provisions for users to take advantage of internet calling. It is an especially apparent need in areas where mobile towers still struggle to keep up with demand.
“With mobile coverage, if we hit a dead zone that’s the end of the conversation because it disconnects,” said Mr McCormack.
“But a data hole will just knock you out of connection until it can reconnect, it’ll just keep buffering through until it makes that connection again.”
Mr McCormack and many of his rural neighbours operates his own agribusiness. A consistent data connection can mean the difference between running at a loss and making a profit.
Expansion in data capabilities is a healthy step in repairing the disparity in the country, but Mr McCormack is hopeful it will lead to an overall improvement in mobile services.
“We’re needing basic mobile coverage here, but if you don’t have data during harvest time you can miss out on the vital information you need,” he said.
“Pricing for grain, it changes so quickly if you’re not seeing the changes in real time, you’re missing out on getting top dollar.”
Mr McCormack has been campaigning for improved satellite facilities in his area for more than ten years. He recognises the latest step as a victory.
“It’s a very big step forward, but the only downside is bringing the mobile towers up to the need,” he said.
“Mobile and internet is like shoes and socks, you really need them both to operate effectively.”