Telstra reports on NBN training
The CWU met with Telstra on 25 September to discuss progress on the government-funded NBN training programme.
Under the terms of its Trust Deed with the Commonwealth, Telstra must report quarterly to the government on implementation of the programme. As stakeholders, the Telstra unions are included in these meetings.
Telstra reported that during the quarter ending 30 September, training has focussed largely on field staff.
The Telstra Platinum training, which equips CTs for an enlarged role in the digital home/digital office environment, is ongoing. The larger programme has also included training on NBN installation functions, on fibre testing and on fibre and coaxial cable installation within the customer premises (in line with the new cabling provider rules requirements).
Training in NBN customer support also continues for Telstra Services Operations staff in Networks.
In the next quarter Training will begin for FTTN planners and designers needed for the 1000 node FTTN roll-out that Telstra will conduct on behalf of NBN Co.
Other training needs, for instance those related to possible HFC network upgrades, are likely to arise once the renegotiation of Telstra’s NBN agreements has been finalised. The CWU expects to have a further briefing on these issues late this year or early in 2015.
