Future-Proofing Your Strata Building's Internet Infrastructure

Bright & Duggan recently met with nbn to learn more about fibre upgrade opportunities currently available to eligible strata communities. For some buildings, there may be an opportunity to upgrade to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), bringing fibre infrastructure directly to each apartment or lot. 

As this is a building-wide infrastructure upgrade, any decision to proceed must be considered and approved by the Owners Corporation. 

Why are fibre upgrades being discussed? 

Many apartment buildings were originally connected to the nbn network using technologies that relied in part on copper infrastructure. While these connections have served buildings well over time, increasing digital demands are prompting many committees to review whether existing infrastructure will continue to meet residents' needs in the years ahead. 

Today, households typically have multiple connected devices, with online meetings, streaming services, gaming, smart home systems and cloud-based applications all competing for bandwidth. 

What are the potential benefits for residents? 

A fibre connection may help support: 

• More reliable video conferencing for residents working or studying from home 
• Better performance when multiple users and devices are connected at the same time 
• Increased capacity to support future technologies and digital services 
• Improved overall connectivity as household internet demands continue to grow 

Connectivity is also becoming an increasingly important consideration for buyers and renters when comparing properties and residential communities.   

What does a building-wide upgrade involve? 

For eligible buildings, the process generally begins with the owners corporation entering into an agreement with nbn. 

A tailored installation plan is then developed for the building, taking into account factors such as building layout, existing infrastructure and access requirements. Once construction is complete, individual residents can choose if and when they would like to connect to a fibre-based plan through their preferred internet provider. 

Importantly, the infrastructure can be installed throughout the building even if some residents choose not to activate a fibre service immediately. 

Managing disruption 

One of the most common concerns raised by committees is the potential impact of upgrade works on residents. 

The upgrade process is designed to minimise disruption, with planned access arrangements, advance notice of works and communication throughout the project. Installation requirements will vary from building to building and strata managers can assist in coordinating information and access where required. 

A long-term infrastructure decision     

For many committees, the discussion is less about internet speeds today and more about future planning. 

Just as committees consider major asset maintenance, sustainability initiatives and building improvements, telecommunications infrastructure is becoming another area of long-term consideration. As resident expectations continue to evolve, some owners corporations may see value in exploring whether their current infrastructure remains fit for purpose for the next decade and beyond. 

A long-term infrastructure decision 

Committees and owners interested in understanding whether their building may be eligible for a fibre upgrade can visit the nbn website for further information and eligibility details. 

For advice on how infrastructure projects such as this may be considered within your strata community, speak with your strata manager. 

Visit the NBN page for more information.