The firm predicts that by 2013, around 30 per cent of all broadband users will be reliant on wireless 3G services, which could potentially reduce the subscriber base for the NBN.

"In ten years time, we expect traditional telco services such as broadband access to account for a very small percentage of the total revenue generated via the NGN (next-generation network)," Harpur said.

"The full benefits will come from the services supplied via the network, and these will continue to flow for a number of decades beyond the completion of the project. Perhaps the best way to look at the NGN is to consider it a stepping stone to the ultimate goal of an FttP network."

The research includes consideration of a possible Telstra split, and while Harpur remains confident this will take place, he remains mum on whether the split will be functional or operational.

"New CEO David Thodey is a positive for both Telstra and the industry, he seems to be very well liked within Telstra and I know the unions consider his appointment a very positive approach," he said.