![The [[xref:http://nbnco.net.au/assets/maps/coverage-australia.pdf|NBN Co coverage map]]. The map is based on initial detailed modelling work done by NBN Co and may change with further planning and design.](https://d321cxw853vaeo.cloudfront.net/article/images/100x100/dimg/m_img_42344.jpg)
NBN Co has announced the dates for the start of construction of the National Broadband Network's Second Release sites in NSW, Queensland and the ACT. Construction at the Second release sites in Coffs Harbour and Armidale will begin this month.
The NBN wholesaler estimates that it will take 12 months from the beginning of work at the sites to the first services being available.
NBN Co CEO, Mike Quigley, said that the striking of a definitive agreement with Telstra and wholesaler's signing of Silcar for construction work allowed the finalisation of Second Release dates.
The launch of the Second Release sites had been delayed due to the negotiations with Telstra, but in June the telco announced that it, the Federal Government and NBN Co had come to definitive agreements on the structural separation of Telstra and the use of its network assets in the NBN.
The agreements still require the approval of a majority of Telstra shareholders at the telco’s annual general meeting in October. The federal opposition slammed the deal.
“The use of Telstra’s infrastructure, where it is available, should reduce the amount of disruption for the community and provide a smoother and more efficient rollout," Quigley said in a statement. "It was for this reason that we waited to start this next phase of construction."
Earlier this week Telstra submitted detailed structural separation plans to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. The structural separation undertaking (SSU) commits the telco to structurally separating by 1 July 2018 and decommissioning its copper and hybrid fibre coaxial (HFC) networks.
Telstra CEO, David Thodey, said in a statement that the submission of "is another important step in finalising Telstra’s participation in the rollout of the NBN."
In June NBN Co tapped Silcar for work in Queensland, NSW and the ACT — representing some 40 per cent of the network's construction activity over the following 24 months.
A statement from NBN Co said the company is still negotiating with other companies for construction work in the other states and the NT.
ACT
• Gungahlin: October
NSW
• Armidale: August
• Coffs Harbour: August
• Kiama township and Jamberoo: September
• Riverstone: November
Queensland
• Aspley- Brisbane metropolitan area: November
• Goodna/Springfield Lakes: November
• Toowoomba: September
• Townsville: September