Firmus’ Bass Strait Cable Shows Digital Leadership Needed

Tasmania’s tech sector is urging the State Government to play a leading role in securing a new Bass Strait fibre optic cable announced by data centre Firmus Technologies and cable partner SUBCO. 

The Bernacchi-1 is a groundbreaking private investment partnership between Launceston AI factory Firmus Technologies and SUBCO – but still has several environmental and planning approvals ahead before it can connect Tasmania with Melbourne and for the first time Sydney.

According to Firmus Technologies, Bernacchi-1 is expected to deliver more than 60 terabits per second of additional capacity – exceeding the current total capacity of all existing Bass Strait fibre optic cables combined.

TasICT CEO Russell Kelly said the announcement was as significant to Tasmania’s digital economy as the fibre optic cable planned for Marinus Link.

“Bernacchi-1 plugs Tasmania into the AI boom and makes the state an attractive destination for businesses with advanced tech needs and large tech firms.

“It also drives the next wave of business innovation and jobs across all sectors through increased data capacity, redundancy at scale and price competition.

“The State Government must now treat the fibre optic cable project as a high priority requiring active leadership and drive.

“There has never been a more important time to continue the momentum with a dedicated Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy following the resignation of former Minister Madeleine Ogilvie.”

Tasmania is currently serviced by three primary subsea telecommunications links, including two Telstra cables and Basslink. While these assets have supported the state effectively, parts of the network are approaching the end of their serviceable life, reinforcing the importance of new investment.