Optus announced that it has expanded its broadband coverage to include rural and remote areas in Australia and New Zealand.
In a statement, the carrier said it has sealed a deal with Gilat Satellite Networks to supply Optus with additional infrastructure, including several thousand VSATs for the expansion. Optus' expansion of its "SkyEdge" network supports the initial stage of the Australian government's rural broadband subsidy under the Broadband Connect program.
Since 2004, Optus has deployed thousands of VSAT equipment to serve corporate, government and residential customers.
The network expansion will provide customers throughout Australia with a wide range of broadband communications services, including distance learning, business continuity services and broadband Internet access with speeds comparable to metropolitan areas, Optus said.