Site for the broadband-baffled unveiled

Unsure of your broadband options? The government wants to show you the way.

The Communications Ministry has launched a new offensive to make rural Australians aware of their broadband choices with a new Web site and phone line unveiled under the "BroadbandNow" banner.

Those trying to find out which providers operate in their area can visit www.broadbandnow.gov.au or call 1800 883 488 -- a phone line aimed particularly at those who don't currently have a broadband connection - from Monday to Friday between 8am and 9pm.

The BroadbandNow Web site will offer information on how to obtain access to broadband; what each of the various broadband technologies means for consumers; and whether individual consumers are eligible for government assistance programs such as the Australian Broadband Guarantee (ABG). Under the ABG, those in the most remote areas will be able to claim a subsidy of AU$2,750 for satellite connectivity.

The BroadbandNow initiative is the latest step in the government's electorally-timed connectivity initiative.

Other elements include the announcement earlier this month of a WiMax network designed to cover the bush and provide users with "metro-comparable" broadband services and the long-awaited fibre-to-the-node deployment.