Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Hansard source

Affordability is a key determinant of access, and it is Australians on low income who often miss out when it comes to accessing the internet. For instance, over the last decade broadband prices have consistently fallen, meaning that more and more Australians, and particularly those from low socioeconomic groups, could afford the take-up of broadband service. The price of ADSL fell 69 per cent from 2005 to 2010. In contrast the NBN asked regulators for the right to lift prices on most services over the next five years, and the strategic review confirms that Senator Conroy's approach would have resulted in prices rising up to 80 per cent. Obviously, this approach would have limited availability for price-conscious consumers. The coalition will ensure that broadband remains as affordable as possible for Australian families.