CANBERRA, Dec. 23 (Xinhua) -- The federal government of Australia has released draft legislation that aims to ensure optical fibre networks are laid in new residential and commercial developments around Australia.

    The Australian Associated Press reported on Wednesday that under the legislation, Communications Minister Stephen Conroy would be given the power to insist on optical fibre cables being installed as part of any new development.

    The new powers are aimed at paving the way for a smooth rollout of the national broadband network (NBN).

    "We want to ensure that people enjoy the benefits of super fast broadband services from the day they move in to a new home."

    The commonwealth was working with state and territory governments on how its legislation would fit with planning arrangements, Senator Conroy said.

    The legislation was released for public comment on Wednesday and is set to be introduced in the federal parliament in early 2010 with a view to it coming into effect from July 1.