SpeedCast Returns Internet Services to Christmas Island

SpeedCast International Ltd (ASX: SDA) has reached an agreement with the Australian Government to deliver Wireless and 4G network services on Christmas Island until June 30, 2017, to allow a transition period for Australia’s National Broadband Network services to be installed more widely on the island.

The local ISP ceased to provide internet services to 1,000 locals and businesses on March 1, 2017, disconnecting one of Australia’s most remote islands. SpeedCast, as a full service communications provider, was notified one week ago and rapidly initiated discussions with partners and the Australian Government to meet the needs of islanders.

“SpeedCast has extensive experience in remote locations around the world and is proud to support Christmas Island by maintaining connectivity for its residents and local businesses,” said Andrew Burdall, Executive Vice President, Enterprise & Emerging Markets, SpeedCast. “A team from SpeedCast will be deployed to Christmas Island this week to oversee the change and revitalize the local internet infrastructure.”

In order for Christmas Island residents and businesses to get internet access back rapidly, SpeedCast has arranged for disconnected internet accounts to be reactivated. All account holders will then migrate to a SpeedCast internet account over the coming weeks.

In addition, SpeedCast will be working closely with community members to evaluate providing Ka-band internet service on Christmas Island over a longer term. SpeedCast’s commercial satellite approach would complement the services of NBN. Local businesses will be able to subscribe to internet services with SpeedCast providing different speed options and committed levels of network availability.