ACCC broadband stats show LEOSat potential - but also problems

Starlink shows promise for universal service but requires greater constellation density to ensure consistent performance.

David Kennedy · Venture Insights12 December 2024Period: December 20243 min read

88%→

FTTN connections capable of delivering 100Mbps plans (Dec 2024)

49%↓

Sky Muster connections meeting or exceeding 100% speed target

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Abstract

This report analyses the ACCC’s December 2024 Measuring Broadband Australia report, which benchmarks satellite broadband for the first time. While Starlink demonstrates high average download speeds, it exhibits significant performance variation and capacity limits during the 5pm to 10pm busy period. The findings suggest that while LEOSat technology has the potential to shoulder remote communication burdens and USO obligations, the current constellation requires further expansion to provide the consistency needed for universal service provision.

Key Takeaways

ACCC data shows NBN FTTN continues to struggle, with only 88% of lines capable of supporting 100Mbps plans.
Starlink delivers high average speeds but suffers from significant performance degradation during the 5pm-10pm busy period.
Sky Muster capacity remains inherently fixed, with only 49% of users meeting speed targets due to necessary capacity rationing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Not in its current state. While Starlink delivers high average speeds, it suffers from significant performance degradation during the 5pm to 10pm peak period, requiring an expansion from the current 6,700 satellites to the planned 42,000 to meet consistent service standards.

FTTN infrastructure is reaching its limit, with 12% of lines unable to support 100Mbps plans as of December 2024. This performance gap is a primary driver behind NBN Co’s $750 million investment to upgrade fixed wireless speeds to 100Mbps across the regional network.

Consistency remains elusive; only 24.9% of Starlink tests achieve the most common 150-200 Mbps download bracket. Legacy Sky Muster services are even more constrained, with only 49% of users meeting or exceeding their 100% speed targets due to necessary capacity rationing.

ACCC broadband stats show LEOSat potential - but also problems

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