headline deal = $11b

Well done all that were patient - devil in the detail but uso appears to be addressed - and importantly is non-binding


Government strikes NBN deal with Telstra
Updated 10 minutes ago


The Government has been in negotiations with the telecommunications company since late last year. The Federal Government has struck an $11 billion deal with Telstra over the national broadband network.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced the deal at a joint press conference with Telstra chief David Thodey.

The Government will pay $9 billion to access Telstra infrastructure - including pits and ducts - to avoid duplication.

A further $2 billion will go towards dealing with structural separation issues, including setting up a new company to meet Telstra's universal service obligation.

The deal still needs the approval of Telstra shareholders and the competition regulator.

Mr Rudd says the agreement with Telstra will help the Government provide a new super fast internet system.

The Government has been in negotiations with the telecommunications company since late last year.