The NBN: what, why and when

What is the NBN?

A new broadband network that uses new technologies including fibre-optic, fixed wireless and satellite to provide faster internet than the existing copper telephone network can. Its cost is not yet known but estimated at up to $56 billion, more than half from taxpayers.

Why is it needed?

The internet has only been widely available for two decades but is now an omnipotent part of people's lives and demands on it continue to increase. The NBN is for both today and the future, to handle newer, possibly unknown technologies that will appear in future decades.

When will I get it?

As of Monday, one in two Australians can access the NBN. For those who don't have it half will have access in the next year and the rest before 2020 according to the builders NBN Co. The company's website tells you if your home has access yet.