Brand MHR Medeleine King weighs in on NBN access

Ms King plans to grill Federal ministers after delivering her maiden speech in Parliament early next week.

She said frustration with perceived inaction on the NBN was high.

“People raise the accessibility issue with us consistently, particularly from the black spot areas of Baldivis and Port Kennedy,” she said. “I understand people’s frustration and why they are approaching all levels of government.”

She said some City of Rockingham councillors had already approached her with concerns.

“I have met with a number of local councillors on the issue, including Cr Whitfield,” she said.

“I really admire his efforts to do what he can for ratepayers in Baldivis.

“We have become a telecommunications backwater. People are having trouble accessing ADSL and getting mobile coverage, let alone NBN access.

“Matt has merely reflected the frustration of his constituents, as have other councillors.

However Ms King said it was a matter for Federal, not local, government.

“State levels are frustrated too,” she said.

“There is not much they can do other than raise it with me.”

Ms King said she was in the process of putting out a petition regarding the NBN, mobile blackspots and ADSL access.

Ms King had earlier raised the issue with Federal Communications Minister Mitch Fifield in August. She said she was yet to receive a response.

“It is a bit distressing as it has become a productivity issue, adversely affecting local businesses,” she said.

“They need it for everyday dealings, such as orders and deliveries; without it, they can not run a business.”