AUSTRALIA faces an explosion in broadband internet access as Telstra slashes prices and a host of new providers prepare to launch services.
Telstra has cut its wholesale price for high-speed ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line) services by 30 per cent under pressure from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
In the past few days, at least two companies have joined the swelling ranks of residential broadband internet providers. And several other providers, including OzEmail, are planning to offer high-speed ADSL services soon.
Telstra"s cuts to its wholesale ADSL pricing will mean cheaper access for residential and businesses users, and for the first time regional Australians will have a choice of broadband providers.
At the same time, Telstra is testing technology that allows competitors to offer a more diverse range of services over its copper wires.