Over the past month I have been watching with interest in the Bradfordville area where the fibre to node installation is being carried out.

It is interesting to note that where I currently reside it was not possible to access ADSL, when I approached Telstra some years ago.

At the time I was given the run-around by Telstra so instead decided to go wireless, which has its limitations.

I therefore view the Abbott/Turnbull governments' watering down of this important project with some scepticism.

I have recently visited the local Telstra office and was advised that NBN rollout is a different "kettle of fish" to ADSL and that past problems will not apply. Let's hope that I have been correctly advised on this occasion. I wait with bated breath for when NBN is up and running.

The issue of broadband did not become an important one until 2007 election. The Rudd camp made it an important issue. It was indicated that the fibre to premises installation would a better option in the long run. The then Howard government promoted the fibre to node installation.

Whether we like it or not, the internet is now a part of most people's way of life. Accordingly, we should be provided with the best service.

It is also very easy for governments to privatise government services as it appears to have been done in this case. What performance indicators are being used and do taxpayers have a say, other than the ballot box, if the contract is not acceptable.

Howard Bye, Goulburn.