jantimot, even assuming the worse case scenario and using the figures you posted.
If forecast revenue of $5.8b drops to 60%, then without increasing average cost per customer, the forecast revenue will still be $3.48b, which is $480m over operating expenses.
So even with only a 60% take up rate, the operating expenses are more than covered.
As far as returning capital costs, an argument could be made that the value of the assets, the $480m above operating expenses and not paying out incentives to private companies to do the same job, would offset any perceived negative aspect of capital costs.
I still believe the Social and Economical benefits to Australia make the NBN worth proceeding with.
