The Metropolitan Broadband Connect program involves a subsidy for Internet service providers (ISPs) in the form of an upfront payment for infrastructure or by a per-customer subsidy to roll out affordable broadband.

Coonan said this money will "grease the wheel for the industry to connect outer metro areas more quickly", adding that the rest is up to industry.

Under the Metro Broadband Connect program announcement made yesterday, ISPs are invited to register so potential customers can find broadband services available to them or express interest in connecting to such a service.

For more information on guidelines surrounding Metro Broadband Connect, go to www.dcita.gov.au/tel/mbc