The latest roll-out, announced by Communications Minister Malcom Turnbull, did not include Orange and Mr Whitton said businesses would only look at expanding into areas that had high speed connections. 

He said he travelled to Asia regularly through his business and the internet connections in other countries put ours to shame. On top of the cheaper wages there was no question why manufacturers such as Electrolux were leaving the city, Mr Whitton said.

“Without it there are no opportunities for businesses such as manufacturing to grow,” he said.

Given the latest announcement of about 1000 job losses in the central west, Mr Whitton said the time to access the NBNhad never been so critical.

“It will generate jobs certainly. Any business looking to relocate will be looking at the telecommunications available,” he said.

Mr Whitton said now was the time for Orange City Council, member for Orange Andrew Gee and member for Calare John Cobb to lobby to get the NBN here.

However, according to a statement of expectations issued on September 24, NBN Co must not issue any new building instructions without “further analysis and discussion” with the government, which means all new construction contracts have to get approval. 

“We need to be brought into the 21st century in order to be competitive and an attractive place for businesses to move to,” Mr Whitton said.

nicole.kuter@fairfaxmedia.com.au