Optus has announced it has signed a $15 million five-year contract with the New South Wales Government’s Department of Education and Communities to deliver an enhanced satellite service to improve long distance learning for the state’s most remote students.

 

The service will provide improved internet access and support a range of new services, such as two-way video conferencing and interactive media applications.

 

As part of the deal, Optus will significantly upgrade the existing satellite technology to double the amount of satellite bandwidth available to remote schools.

 

“The introduction of the enhanced satellite service will provide our most isolated schools and students with opportunities to connect and collaborate like never before. It will give them a chance to share in the educational benefits of contemporary web-based tools and give us a chance to close the gap that currently exists between the city and the bush,” NSW Minister for Education, Adrian Piccoli said.

 

Paul Sheridan, Director of Optus Satellite said, “We’re proud of our role in helping to make a difference to the learning experience of students in the most remote communities across Australia via our satellite capabilities.