This paper examines the question of whether the scope of universal service should be widened to
include broadband. A common concern in OECD countries is that some groups without access to highspeed
broadband networks, such as those residing in rural and sparsely populated remote areas, will be
unable to access the benefits expected of broadband access, from on-line services including education,
health and government services. This problem is expected to grow in significance as broadband service
becomes increasingly important and pervasive.
