New developments faqs

When will NBN reticulate fibre into my new development?

NBN Co will aim to co-ordinate the installation of fibre to meet developers  first service connection date. The rollout of fibre is dependant on finalising a developer agreement with NBN Co and then following the process of reviewing pit and pipe designs. Please view the application process map online at: www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments.

How long will it take to process my application?

Fibre applications take up to 10 working days to process.

Do I have to submit an application for my entire development or just the current stage?

NBN Co requires that you submit separate applications for each stage of your development. The first application should include details of your first stage, plus your overall development. Subsequently, you will have to submit separate applications for each further stage of your development, each time referring to your initial application using the reference number provided.

Can I submit an application over the telephone?

No, all applications must be filled out online via the online form, available at www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments

How can developers register to apply for NBN Co fibre?

All developers need to apply for fibre services from NBN Co online at www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments

How will a developer know if their development is in the long term fibre footprint?

All newly approved developments requesting fibre from NBN Co will be assessed to determine if they are within NBN Co's long term fibre footprint. Information on NBN Co's proposed fibre footprint is available online at the NBN Co website

How and when will NBN Co establish contracts with developers?

After NBN Co approves your new development application, we will follow up to ensure your application details are correct and then issue you a developer agreement via email. Please view our application process maps available online at www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments

Where should I send my signed Developer Agreement?

Please send your signed Developer Agreement to NBN Co, Level 11, 100 Arthur St, North Sydney 2060

Why is the limitation of liability value included in the Developer Agreement? 

The limitation of liability referred to in clause 19 of the Developer Agreement is simply a cap on each parties' liability under the Developer Agreement. The amount of the limitation of liability is determined by the value of the equipment being installed in the Development by NBN Co.

Unless and until a claim is made against the Developer, the Developer will not be liable to pay the amount specified. 

Can I find out if my development is in NBN Co's fibre footprint before I submit an application?

We have indicative footprint maps available on our website www.nbnco.com.au, but for more detailed information you will need to complete the online application form before we can assess whether your development is within the fibre footprint. Our online form is available at www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments

Who should enter into the Developer Agreement, the Land Owner or the Developer?

The Developer should enter into the Developer Agreement as the majority of the obligations are obligations that only the Developer can satisfy. However, where the Developer is not the land owner, the Developer must ensure that the land owner agrees to transfer ownership of the pit and pipe works to NBN Co, consents to NBN Co installing the Network Infrastructure on the land and, where applicable, appoints the Developer as principal contractor (or equivalent) under the OH&S legislation.

Can I get an early certificate from NBN so that I can get council approval for my masterplan?

We will need you to provide specified information to us, we will then check whether or not your development is within NBN Co's footprint. If it is we will email you an early certificate.
Please send us an email with the following detail to ;

• A copy of your masterplan
• Latitude and longitude
• Address Details
• Project Timings
• Total Number of lots with indicative staging information

Can developers use their own contractors for pit and pipe construction?

Yes, however all pit and pipe infrastructure needs to be installed to NBN Co's specifications, which can be found online at www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments under "Tech Guidelines" section.

How will the transfer of assets (pit & pipe infrastructure) work between NBN Co and developers?

Developers need to transfer ownership of pit and pipe infrastructure to NBN Co before fibre can be installed. This is clearly laid out in the Developer Agreement between NBN Co and Developers.

What are developer's obligations in relation to pit and pipe installation?

Developers are responsible for installing pit and pipe infrastructure into new developments to NBN Co specifications and NBN Co is responsible for installing fibre. NBN Co's Pit and Pipe Installation Guidelines are available online at: www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments under the "Technical Guidelines" section. 

What are the specifications and requirements that developers need to adhere to when installing pit and pipe infrastructure?

Developers can access installation guidelines and standards on pit and pipe infrastructure online at www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments under our "Technical Guidelines" section.

What happens if pit and pipe infrastructure does not meet NBN Co specifications?

Once pit and pipe infrastructure is installed NBN Co will inspect the infrastructure, if your pit and pipe infrastructure is not fit for purpose and does not meet NBN Co's specifications, NBN Co will not be able to install fibre through the pit and pipe infrastructure until remedial works have been completed and it meets NBN Co standards.

What happens when the developer completes pit and pipe installation?

Developer's need to provide NBN Co with 10 days notice prior to the planned completion date of pit and pipe infrastructure. NBN Co will then arrange a time to inspect the constructed pit and pipe infrastructure.

What is the cost of pit and pipe infrastructure in new developments?

The cost of pit and pipe infrastructure will vary based on a number of factors including but not limited to contractor pricing, size of development and distance.  NBN Co does not install pit & pipe. There is a list of pit & pipe suppliers available on our website, this list is only a guide for developers who may not already have a contractor they can use. Please refer to our website for more detail - www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments under Technical Guidelines.

Where can I find pit and pipe installation guidelines?

NBN Co pit and pipe installation guidelines can be found online at www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments under Technical Guidelines

Who can design and install pit and pipe infrastructure?

A list of pit and pipe suppliers is available on the NBN Co website at: www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments. The suppliers on this list are not accredited by NBN Co. The list is only a guide for developers who do not already have a preferred contractor to perform pit and pipe design and or installation.

Will the pit and pipe specifications and requirements change over time?

As technology improves over the life of the NBN project some changes can be expected to be made to specifications and standards. We will establish ongoing dialogue with relevant stakeholders to ensure they are aware of any changes made.

Will NBN Co install pit & pipe?

Developers are responsible for installing the pit and pipe infrastructure to NBN Co specifications, NBN Co will enter into an agreement with you, for you to build the pit and pipe infrastructure. This infrastructure will be transferred to NBN Co and will then form part of NBN Co's open access, wholesale network.  You can download the NBN Co pit and pipe installation guidelines and standards from the NBN Co website.  The web address is www.nbnco.com.au/newdevelopments.

How long will it take for NBN Co to assess my Pit & Pipe design?

NBN Co’s obligation is to review a Pit & Pipe design and respond within 20 business days, however NBN Co will always try to complete this activity earlier if possible.

Can developers choose to use another fibre provider other than NBN Co?

Yes, developers can make commercial arrangements to have fibre installed by alternative fibre providers.

What does the New Developments Policy mean for developers?

NBN Co will cover the cost of fibre infrastructure in new developments of 100 premises or more. Developers are responsible for installing pit and pipe infrastructure ( to NBN Co specifications), ownership of this pit and pipe infrastructure needs to be transferred to NBN Co before NBN Co can install fibre. These developments need to be within NBN Co's fibre footprint.

How will broadband infrastructure be provided to infill developments below the 100 premise threshold?

Developments with less than 100 premises are now being assessed by NBN Co and are assessed on practical and economic grounds as they could potentially be near or adjacent to existing or future developments that has been approved by NBN Co for the rollout of infrastructure. Following the assessment of any applications less than 100 premises should NBN Co be unable to approve your application you will need to direct your request to Telstra or any other telecommunications provider.

How will commercial developments be handled by NBN Co?

Commercial developments that request fibre may have specific requirements that require individual solutions. In these cases, NBN Co will work with developers to see if that solution can be provided.

Is there a notice period developers need to give NBN Co when requesting fibre infrastructure for new developments?

Yes, developers need to allow NBN Co to adequately plan the delivery of fibre infrastructure to new developments. NBN Co require at least three months notice before civil/construction work commence in your stage.

Is there legislation for the New Developments Policy?

Yes, in addition to the new developments policy, the Fibre Deployment Bill has been passed through Parliament legislation on the 26th September 2011, for the roll out of fibre in New Developments.

What are developers responsible for when applying for fibre from NBN Co?

Please visit www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments to review our Developer Process Page which details all of NBN Co's fibre criteria for new developments.

What does the Fibre in New Developments Policy mean for developers?

Newly approved developments across Australia will be among some of the first to connect to the National Broadband Network. All new developments of 100 premises (dwellings/units) or more released over a three year period, which received stage 5 approval (relating to civil works) after 1 January 2011, within the NBN fibre footprint will be eligible to receive fibre infrastructure from NBN Co.

What does the New Developments Policy mean for new home buyers from 2011 onwards?

The policy means new homeowners will have access to next-generation, superfast fibre-based broadband services in their new estates ahead of the rest of the country. NBN Co is a wholesale network infrastructure provider that does not sell products and services direct to homeowners, only to Retail Service Providers (RSPs). All new homeowners will need to acquire new products and services through Retail Service Providers (telecommunications providers) servicing their area. Consumers will be able to check with the Retail Service Provider of their choice what plans they have to offer services in the development area.

What will happen to broadacre developments that are partially completed and wish to have existing stages retro-fitted with NBN infrastructure?

NBN Co will work with developers on a case-by-case basis to determine the best solution for existing stages, being mindful of a number of factors including existing contracts with other providers, the location of existing infrastructure and the proximity of the NBN rollout. Developers must first submit an application using our online form at www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments before we can consider their development for NBN fibre.

Who is responsible for installing broadband infrastructure into Pre-existing Developments approved before 1 January 2011?

Telstra will remain the responsible entity for provision of telecommunications infrastructure to pre-existing developments, which applied for services from Telstra prior to 1 January 2011.

These developments were defined as "Pre-existing Developments" in the Fibre in New Developments Policy announced by the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy on 9 December 2010, and these developments will now proceed to get Telstra infrastructure and services.

To contact Telstra call 1800 226 543 and quote your Telstra Application for Reticulation (AFR) number.

Who will install broadband infrastructure into New Developments with less than 100 premises?

Developers with developments with less than 100 premises can request telecommunications infrastructure from NBN Co, Telstra or other telecommunications providers. If the application is submitted to NBN Co then this will be reviewed and only approved if NBN Co has fibre infrastructure suitable within the vicinity, or is planning to construct this infrastructure prior to the New Development application requiring a service. If the development application doesn't meet NBN Co's criteria, then the application will be rejected. Rejected applications have a right to a telecommunications service by Telstra as the provider of last resort for <100 lot developments.

Why do I need to give NBN Co 3 months notice prior to the commencement of construction/civil works?

This is a requirement which is part of the New Developments Policy, which was announced by the Minister for Broadband and Communications and it allows NBN Co to properly plan for the delivery of fibre to new developments.

Why isn’t NBN Co providing fibre into Pre-existing Developments as stated in the New Developments Policy?

NBN Co has recently announced its progressive roll out of fibre to Pre-existing developments. The recently announced sites are able to be located on our main site at www.nbnco.com.au. NBN Co will continue to update the community on an ongoing basis of future sites as part of our staged roll out process.

In the interest of avoiding any delay to developers projects, Telstra had been advised that they will remain the responsible entity for provision of telecommunications infrastructure to developers who applied for services from Telstra prior to 1 January 2011.

These developments were defined as "Pre-existing Developments" in the Fibre in New Developments Policy announced by the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy on 9 December 2010, and these developments will now proceed to get Telstra infrastructure and services.

Please contact Telstra on 1800 226 543 to discuss your development requirements for pre-existing development applications.

Will State and Territory Governments need to legislate?

NBN Co and the Commonwealth Government will work together with State, Territory and local governments, peak bodies, industry associations and local councils to ensure the approvals processes at the state and local level incorporate the Federal Government and NBN Co's requirements to implement the New Developments Policy.

Will developers be reimbursed by NBN Co for fibre infrastructure work done before 1 January 2011 in their estates?

No, NBN Co mandate is to work forward from 1 January 2011 in line with the policy.

Will developments with existing telecommunications infrastructure be overbuilt by NBN Co as part of the New Developments rollout?

NBN Co’s priority is to focus on all new developments of 100 premises (dwellings/units) or more released over a three year period, which received stage 5 approval (relating to civil works) after 1 January 2011.  Where there are already fibre services in a new development, NBN Co does not intend to install new fibre infrastructure unless required to make it part of or work with the National Broadband Network. Where there is copper or another telecommunications service NBN Co will retrofit these developments as part of the wider Brownfield’s NBN rollout.

Will fibre providers be reimbursed for the fibre they have already installed in areas?

No, NBN Co's mandate is to work forward from 1 January 2011 in line with the policy. Under the Government's policy, there is nothing to stop existing fibre providers continuing to provide infrastructure and services.

Will new developments get NBN Co fibre installed if they are located outside the NBN Co fibre footprint?

NBN Co is currently assessing parameters to have a co-investment option for developments that sit outside the NBN fibre foot print. These options will be explored on a case-by-case basis with NBN Co and developers.

Can I get NBN Co fibre if I already have an agreement or contract with another provider?

NBN Co’s New Developments Policy does not override any existing contractual arrangements you may have in place with another fibre provider, you will therefore need to discuss your future staging with your existing fibre provider.

Can I get NBN Co fibre if my development has existing copper infrastructure?

The NBN Co fibre roll-out is currently focused on new developments. Replacement of the existing copper infrastructure will fall into the broader Brownfields roll-out.

What if I have a large industrial property with only a small number of lots. Am I ineligible?

New industrial developments will be considered on a case by case basis. NBN Co criteria to connect new developments is for developments of 100 or more premises (lots/units) that are within the NBN fibre footprint, however we recommend that developers of industrial/commercial developments submit an application via our online portal www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments so we can assess the details of the development further before determining the outcome as there may be reason for special considerations.

Is my new development eligible for NBN Co fibre?

To be eligible for NBN Co fibre in New Developments, applications must meet the following criteria:

• there will be 100 lots or more released over a three year period
• stage 5 approval (civil works) was or will be granted after 1 January 2011
• the developer can provide a minimum of 3 months notice prior to the commencement of construction/civil works, and
• the development is within NBN Co's fibre footprint

In addition to this, developers must be able to transfer ownership of the pit & pipe infrastructure to NBN Co

For further information please refer to our 'Policy Information' page on our website at nbnco.com.au/newdevelopments.

How do I order services for my new home?

NBN Co is a wholesale network infrastructure provider that does not sell products and services direct to homeowners, only to Retail Service Providers (RSPs). All new homeowners will need to acquire new products and services through Retail Service Providers (telephone or internet service providers) servicing their area. Consumers will be able to check with the Retail Service Provider of their choice what plans they have to offer services in the development area.

What telecommunications services will be available in my new development?

A variety of telephone and internet packages are available. As NBN Co is a wholesale only, you will need to contact your telephone or internet service provider to discuss which products and services will be right for you.

Will NBN Co be delivering fibre in my stage?

In the first instance you will need to contact your developer, as they would have signed an agreement with NBN Co to deliver fibre within your stage. If you are unable to contact your developer to obtain an answer please contact 1800 881 816 option 2 and quote the development and stage number to find out whether NBN Co is delivering fibre in your stage.

What if I don't know which stage l live in?

You will need to speak with your developer or builder to find out what stage of the development your home is located in before NBN Co is able to advise whether NBN Co will be deploying fibre in to the stage

Who do l call to connect to NBN Co?

Your telephone or internet service provider will be able to arrange a time to have all of the appropriate equipment installed and your service activated. Either contact your existing telephone or internet service provider or find a service provider at www.nbnco.com.au/serviceproviders

I currently have Telstra pit and pipe at the front of my house, will NBN Co be providing services through this?

If your home has existing Telstra infrastructure out in the street your stage may not be NBN Ready. As a result, contact your telephone or internet service provider to find out what type of service is available.

How do l wire my home correctly for NBN Co?

If you are considering wiring your home for the National Broadband Network you can look at NBN Co's specific in-home cabling requirements to ensure that your home can be connected to the National Broadband Network, these are available at www.nbnco.com.au/new developments on the "Technical Guidelines" link. Cabling must be done by an installer registered with an Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) accredited industry Registrar. ACMA is the federal regulator responsible for the industry-managed cabler registration scheme. Your builder may be able to recommend a registered cable installer in your area.

Who do l speak to regarding home wiring?

Cabling must be done by an installer registered with an Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) accredited industry Registrar. ACMA is the federal regulator responsible for the industry-managed cabler registration scheme. Your builder may be able to recommend a registered cable installer in your area.

I'm currently in an existing stage that has copper, but future stages are getting fibre. When do l get it?

As there is existing Telstra infrastructure out in the street this is considered an existing area and not specifically a new subdivision where NBN Co infrastructure has been supplied. There are still a number of key milestones that have to occur between Telstra and NBN Co around providing fibre to the premises through Telstra’s duct infrastructure. Once finalised NBN Co will then be announcing specific release sites nationally and a program of works to undertake the existing area roll out. Until such time as this is confirmed you will need to discuss this matter with Telstra. 

How much is it going to cost me to wire my home for the NBN?

The minumum requirement for NBN Co network to be installed is to ensure that a lead-in pipe is located from the pit in the street to the home and then for a communications conduit to be supplied from the exterior of the home directly into the home to NBN Co guidelines. The cost of this work will vary depending on your builder/cabler. From the equipment located in the home (Network Terminating Device) all costs thereafter are variable based upon what the individual customers needs may be. These requirements will need to be discussed with your builder.

What equipment gets installed at my home?

NBN Co will install within your home a Network Terminating Device (NTD) and Power Supply Unit (PSU) which also includes the Battery Backup unit. The Battery Backup should provide you with a total of approximately 5 hours of backup battery power without mains power under typical circumstances which can be accessed to make calls over a standard non-powered telephone connected to one of the voice ports in an emergency. The location of these devices will need to be discussed with your builder.

Will my standard telephone from my old home work in my new home?

The technology under the ground may be new, but using the phone at home will essentially be the same. Contact your telephone or internet service provider to see if your existing phone with work over the National Broadband Network.

Where can I find Multi Dwelling Unit (MDU) space requirements and guidelines for New Developments?

NBN Co MDU space requirements and guidelines are available on our website - www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments under Technical Guidelines

Which supplier has been selected as the NBN Co New Developments construction partner?

We have partnered with Fujitsu and Service Stream as our construction partners for the rollout of fibre into new developments.

How much space do I need in a communications room for my Multi Dwelling Unit (MDU) new development?

Please view the Building Design Guide for Multi Dwelling Units (MDU) available online at www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments

How will NBN Co deliver fibre into new developments?

We have partnered with Fujitsu and Service Stream as our construction partners for the rollout of fibre into new developments.

Will NBN Co fibre have the capacity to run IPTV?

NBN Co’s infrastructure is configured to support IP-based applications, including IPTV. It is anticipated that IPTV support will be available from early 2012. NBN Co is a wholesaler, however, and developers/home owners will need to specify and acquire an IPTV service from a Retail Service Provider who operates in their area. Consumers will be able to check with the Retail Service Provider of their choice to see if they plan to offer services in their development area.

Will NBN Co release 'fibre ready home' standards and requirements for builders?

Yes! Preparation and Installation Guide for SDUs and MDUs (Formerly In-Home Wiring Guide) is available on our website - www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments under Technical Guidelines

Will NBN Co require an allocation of land within a newly approved development to house infrastructure equipment?

In some cases space may be required for a Fibre Access Node (FAN) site if the development is located some distance from any existing infrastructure area. NBN Co’s planning team will work with the developers to determine if an allocation of land is required, for this reason or any other, on a case by case basis, but most of NBN Co’s infrastructure will be installed underground in conduits and pits.

Will NBN Co support Free to Air TV (FTA) or Pay TV on the NBN in new developments?

NBN Co is a wholesale provider of fibre broadband infrastructure which does not support RF-delivered FTA services or HFC-delivered Pay-TV services. NBN does however envisage that many of these content services will over time be available from Retail Service Providers using an IP platform.

Where can I find specifications about wiring of new homes to ensure that they are compatible with NBN?

Please contact your Builder or a registered Cabler for all wiring requirements beyond the NBN Co equipment. Cabling must be done by an installer registered with an Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) accredited industry registrar. ACMA is the federal regulator responsible for the industry-managed cabler registration scheme. Your builder may be able to recommend a registered cable installer in your area.

Who will install the fibre?

NBN Co has partnered with Fujitsu and Service Stream to provide a managed service including network design, construction and installation works in new developments, working alongside NBN Co’s operations team to integrate with our business and operating systems.

What will the Network Terminating Device (NTD) look like in new developments?

Details regarding the NTDs are available in our Preparation and Installation guidelines (Formerly In-Home Wiring Guide) which you can obtain from our website - www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments under Technical Guidelines

Where will the NTD be located on premises in new developments?

Industry practice is to install an external NTD in new developments. Detail regarding the NTDs are available in our Preparation and Installation Guide for SDUs and MDUs (Formerly In-Home Wiring Guide) which you can obtain from our website - www.nbnco.com.au/NewDevelopments under Technical Guidelines

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