"The next process could be over within a couple of weeks if everything goes according to plan, but in reality it would probably be a couple months to make sure administrative processes go through and that there are no complications with Telstra services," said Internode strategic development manager, John Lindsay.

The gains in upload speed would be made possible through the deployment of Annex M, an International Telecommunications Union standard that doubles the upload speed of ADSL2+ broadband networks.

Annex M increases upload speeds from 1Mbps to 2.5 Mbps, Lindsay said.

The ACIF-led negotiation process ensures all affected parties (such as Telstra), have their say in the development process and to ensure existing services aren't disrupted. Once discussions have been completed, ACIF will issue a recommendation to the Australian Communications and Media Authority for the allowance of a public trial.

At this point, any service provider would be able participate in the deployment of Annex M, if they have the technology to support it.