NBN Co Partners with Amazon - Remote Connectivity in Australia
Sydney, 8 August 2025 — In a landmark move set to reshape the future of broadband access across regional and remote Australia, NBN Co has announced a strategic partnership with Amazon’s Project Kuiper Satellite Service, selecting the tech giant’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network to deliver next-generation internet services.
The decision marks a significant shift away from traditional geostationary satellite infrastructure, with Amazon’s Kuiper system poised to replace the ageing Sky Muster satellites currently serving over 300,000 premises in rural and remote areas.
A Leap Forward in Connectivity
NBN Co’s CEO, Ellie Sweeney, described the partnership as a “transformational step” in ensuring equitable digital access for all Australians. “This is about giving people in the bush the same opportunities as those in the cities,” Sweeney said. “With Kuiper, we’re investing in a future-proof solution that complements our fibre and fixed wireless networks.”
Amazon’s Project Kuiper, which plans to deploy a constellation of 3,232 LEO satellites, has already launched 78 into orbit. The system promises significantly lower latency and higher bandwidth compared to traditional satellite services, making it ideal for modern applications such as video conferencing, telehealth, and cloud computing.
Why Amazon Kuiper Over Starlink?
While Elon Musk’s Starlink has been a prominent player in the LEO satellite space, NBN Co opted for Kuiper after a rigorous evaluation process. According to insiders, Amazon’s proposal offered stronger integration with NBN’s existing infrastructure and a clearer roadmap for service delivery and support.
The partnership also aligns with NBN Co’s broader strategy to diversify its technology mix and reduce reliance on any single vendor or platform.
What’s Next?
The rollout of Kuiper-powered services is expected to begin in mid-2026, with pilot programs likely to commence in early 2026. NBN Co has committed to working closely with local communities, service providers, and government stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition.
Industry analysts have praised the move as a bold but necessary evolution. “This is a game-changer for regional Australia,” said telecommunications expert Dr. Leila Morgan. “It’s not just about faster internet—it’s about enabling economic participation, education, and healthcare in places that have long been underserved.”
A Broader Vision
This partnership is part of NBN Co’s ongoing commitment to delivering world-class broadband to all Australians, regardless of geography. With fibre upgrades, fixed wireless expansions, and now LEO satellite integration, the company is positioning itself as a global leader in hybrid broadband delivery.
As the digital divide continues to narrow, the collaboration between NBN Co and Amazon’s Project Kuiper could serve as a model for other nations grappling with the challenges of rural connectivity.
