The new appointees, Mr Clem Doherty and Mr Terrence Francis, will broaden the strong commercial and industry experience on the NBN Co board.

“NBN Co is playing an important role planning and deploying the National Broadband Network and I am confident we have in place a great board to direct that vital activity,” said the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy.

“I am very pleased to welcome the appointment of Mr Doherty and Mr Francis as NBN Co directors and am sure they will make a great contribution.”

The two new directors will join the Executive Chair, Mr Mike Quigley, and the five existing NBN Co board members.

The appointment of Mr Doherty and Mr Francis broadens the already strong set of skills possessed by the NBN Co board, which is necessary for a task of this nature.

Lindsay Tanner, Minister for Finance and Deregulation, said: “I am delighted that the two directors have agreed to commence their roles immediately. They will join the existing board in setting the strategic direction for the company and its senior management.”