Senator CONROY (Victoria—Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Digital Productivity) (14:07): I thank Senator Stephens for her longstanding interest in this issue. I know that she is particularly passionate about telecommunications services in rural and regional New South Wales. The Gillard government has pledged that no community in Australia will be left behind in the rollout of affordable, modern, high-speed broadband. Sadly, some of those opposite, particularly down in the far corner, claim to represent the interests of country and regional Australia but, in truth, they simply pay lip service to the view, continually opposing the Gillard government as we roll out uniform wholesale pricing and ubiquitous high-speed broadband to 100 per cent of Australian premises—a project that will have a particularly dramatic impact on regional Australia. Senator Joyce interjecting— The PRESIDENT: Senator Joyce, I know it is the end of the week, but you might cease shouting. It does not assist question time. Thank you. Senator CONROY: Our commitment is unwavering. This is why the NBN Co. has committed to fibre being built in regional areas as a priority. The NBN will deliver fibre to 70 per cent of homes and businesses in regional Australia, and satellite and wireless services— Honourable senators interjecting— The PRESIDENT: If senators wish to debate the issue, the time is after question time. Opposition senators interjecting— The PRESIDENT: When there is silence on my left we will proceed. Senator Conroy. Senator CONROY: are an important part of meeting that commitment. The NBN rollout will deliver higher broadband speeds to those in rural and regional Australia who need it the most but have experienced it the least. And that is why— Honourable senators interjecting— The PRESIDENT: It is obviously one of those days where people are very excited. I know there was a State of Origin last night, but I do not expect the excitement to last today. It did for Senator Macdonald and me, but that's about it! Senator Conroy. Senator CONROY: That is why the Gillard government is rolling out 6,000 kilometres, of which 4,500 are already rolled out, on time and on budget. (Time expired)