As mentioned in this column, the US lacks a serious technology policy and continues to face a digital divide in terms of broadband access.

Looks like we could learn something from the Aussies:

Australia's government has launched an ambitious effort to build a new fiber-to-the-node national network that will provide at least 12Mbps connections to 98 percent of Australia's population. The two percent who won't have access will be covered under a program called the "Australian Broadband Guarantee" that provides funds to ISPs working in underserved areas.

I liked Robin Chase's line at PDF: Broadband maybe not as essential as water, but it is as essential as hot water.

It's a competitiveness issue, and a quality of life issue, and an economic fairness and opportunity issue.

Previously: Do we need a national CTO?