IT’S not undue haste to pursue an incredibly ambitious timetable to get tenders for the $4.7 billion National Broadband Network let and to have work under way. The network will delivery enormour benefit across the whole economy – the sooner the better.

And Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has been hell bent on getting build phase of the project underway buy the end of the year.

For a variety of reasons, not least the foot dragging by at least one of the potential bidders in providing adequate information about their existing network infrastructure has made the keeping the project ideals on target a  challenge in itself.

Sentaor Conroy has build some wriggle room into the process. It is too important to push ahead with full and fair disclose for all parties.

Senator Conroy last week released draft instruments setting out the network information that carriers are to provide for the NBN project, and the rules to safeguard the information.

He has used the telecommunications act to compel carriers to deliver information about their networks for distribution by a deadline. Previously Government had sought industry cooperation through a voluntary program. While Senator Conroy says the companies can still provide the information voluntarily – there is now a legal requirement to encourage them to meet the deadline.

“The scope of network information to be provided has been prepared following consultation with proponents, as well as advice from our specialist expert advisers and relevant Government agencies.”

“Based on this independent expert advice, the Government is of the view that the information set proposed is sufficient for the preparation of robust proposals.”

The Government has decided to request the network information from carriers under legislative provisions recently introduced into the Telecommunications Act 1997.

“In previous consultations carriers have indicated that they are prepared to provide information voluntarily. The Government’s approach still provides carriers with an opportunity to submit voluntarily, but also ensures that all relevant information will be provided within clear timeframes,” Senator Conroy said.

The Government will now consult with carriers on the draft instruments. Following careful consideration of their submissions the Government will be moving to make a decision about final instruments expeditiously.

Once network information is provided to proponents, they will have 12 weeks to finalise their proposals. This will mean proposals will now be received towards the end of 2008.

“This extra time will ensure that proponents have the information required to develop their proposals,” Senator Conroy said.