Australia: concern in other states to ensure as extensive rural broadband as Tasmania

[abc] A deal struck between the Tasmanian and Federal Governments over broadband access in small towns appears to have upset the other states.

Under Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's national broadband plan, Tasmanian towns of about 50 people will get access to premium broadband speeds, while similar towns on the mainland will have to settle for slower connections.

That has prompted South Australian Premier Mike Rann to write Mr Rudd to get a better deal for small towns in his state.

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh has a similar goal.

"Maximise the number of Queensland towns and remote areas that get access," she said.

Opposition broadband spokesman Nick Minchin says Mr Rudd's plan is divisive and is not surprised at the premiers' reaction.

"Labor will get itself into awful trouble if they start treating different parts of australia in different ways," he said.

The roll-out of high speed broadband in Tasmania will begin later this year.

States miffed over Tasmania broadband deal