The Federal Government says it wants to fast-track the National Broadband Network, and must deregulate to do so.

The Government has put out a consultation paper on possible amendments to telecommunications carrier powers and immunities.

Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull says it will let his department “complete the national broadband network faster and at lower cost”.

Telecommunications carriers have some powers and immunities to install and maintain certain facilities, so that they can use power poles to deploy overhead networks, for example.

But Mr Turnbull says he wants changes that would enable them to operate under a single streamlined national regime.

The proposed changes would extend these rights to the NBN’s multi‑technology rollout strategy, speeding up the rollout of the network and reducing the cost.

Turnbull says protections under the Telecommunications Act such as obligations to notify land owners and occupiers about planned work, minimise damage, and restore sites after work is complete would continue to apply.

“Interested parties, including local governments, community groups and industry, are encouraged to comment,” Mr Turnbull said.

The consultation paper and draft amendments are available here.