SMH : NSW to roll out free WiFi service
Spotted this on The SMH site today
NSW to roll out free WiFi service
The NSW government will offer free wireless broadband throughout Sydney CBD and other major centres by early 2008.
I particularily like the comments from the two big telcos
An Optus spokeswoman welcomed the Government's proposal, and said Optus was potentially interested in being part of the project.
"Optus congratulates the New South Wales Government on its innovative plans for free wireless access in major CBD areas across Sydney, and other major metropolitan centres.
"Optus looks forward to seeing more details of the plans and to participating in the expression of interest process."
Telstra, on the other hand, was far more cautious, but admitted that it was yet to see the details of the proposal.
"There's no such thing as a free lunch anymore so it will be interesting to see how it is proposed to be paid for," said a Telstra spokesman.
Both Optus and Telstra offer paid-for wireless broadband plans, and the Government's proposed free service would compete with these.
Roll on 2008!