APA Group and AARNet have signed a partnership agreement under which AARNet will operate the telecommunications services on the Basslink fibre optic infrastructure, delivering high-speed bandwidth between Tasmania and Victoria.
APA will continue to control the operation of the Basslink electricity interconnector, while AARNet will deliver the telecommunications services.
Since APA’s acquisition of the Basslink electricity interconnector in October 2022, it has considered opportunities to ensure the ongoing provision of wholesale telecommunications capacity into Tasmania. AARNet is Australia’s national research and education network provider, owned by the Australian universities and CSIRO. It operates a high-performance telecommunications network that supports research, education, and innovation across the country. AARNet will take over the telecommunications services from July 2025.
Under the 10-year agreement, AARNet will upgrade the network and ensure the ongoing provision of capacity for the research and education sector and the broader telecommunications market in Tasmania. AARNet also has the option to increase network capacity to respond to future potential growth in demand.
APA Group Executive Strategy and Corporate Development Beth Griggs said she was pleased to partner with a provider with deep capability in telecommunications and a track record of operating reliable services.
“The telecommunications optical fibres that form part of Basslink are crucial for Tasmania, providing the state with diverse and resilient telecommunications network pathways. This long-term agreement secures the continued provision of this important service and ensures ongoing investment in its equipment and infrastructure,” Ms Griggs said.
“Basslink has been providing essential electricity services to Tasmania for almost 20 years, which is why it was critical for us to find the right partner. AARNet is a respected operator with more than 30-years’ experience in providing reliable telecommunications services.
“From July 2025, APA will no longer provide services to customers through Basslink Telecoms. APA will continue to work with the Tasmanian Government, customers, suppliers and other key stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition of the business to AARNet with a focus on maintaining diverse and resilient telecommunications capacity into Tasmania.”
AARNet Director Customer Relations Angus Griffin said:
“Tasmania has a strong reputation for research and education in areas like Antarctic and marine science, climate and environmental research, geosciences, and radio astronomy. These fields rely on fast, reliable telecommunications to support data-intensive research and global collaboration, and this partnership will play a critical role in enabling that.”