SUPA Networks: delivering scalable connectivity for modern urban living

SUPA Networks, a division of Smart Urban Properties Australia Limited (SUPA), is Australia’s first converged infrastructure services provider. SUPA works with residential developers to bring advanced connectivity, renewables and in-building prop-tech solutions to new large-scale developments. As an alternative to the nbn®, SUPA Networks offers super-fast fibre networks that support high-speed internet and a range of IP services. These include telephone, TV, security, access control and home automation.

“Our approach combines network hardware and software through intelligent design and IoT-enabled solutions, with the aim of reducing operational costs and enhancing the living experience of owners and tenants,” says Sam Scoutas, Head of Networks, Smart Urban Properties Australia.

Deploying backbone infrastructure for new build, high density residential developments is complex. Large developments will have hundreds of residents using the network. Developers want reliable internet and IP services that continue to offer great digital experiences as demand grows. Too little connectivity can mean expensive upgrades in the short-term future.

“Because our model is to have everything integrated into a single fibre infrastructure, the biggest challenge for us since our inception has been scalability,” Sam says.

Delivering advanced connectivity for a landmark development

When it came to deploying backbone infrastructure in Fraser’s new Midtown Macquarie Park development, Sam and his team at SUPA Networks engaged Telstra Wholesale account team, who brought together a group of experts within InfraCo committed to delivering solutions for SUPA Networks.

“Telstra Wholesale’s account team listened to our needs,” Sam says. “They helped plan a solution that would maximise our ability to deliver scalable bandwidth on demand, delivering over the top services in a highly secure and resilient environment.”

The tight integration of Telstra Wholesale and Telstra InfraCo capabilities and expertise enabled a multi-product mix for integrated infrastructure. The scope of the solution encompasses racks in our data centres and exchanges, connected with a mixture of dark fibre and Wavelength. This solution enables SUPA Networks to deliver ultra low latency, super fast internet to end users.

“Telstra Wholesale and InfraCo were able to provide us with a significant step up in capability and also reach in terms of our network,” Sam explains. “Their market leading fibre products and services offered us greater capability to provide faster internet speeds to ISPs and the end user. The diversity and resilience in the core network was also important to us.”

The unified team also streamlines support. Having one team dedicated to the business helps simplify SUPA Networks’ project management, delivery and escalation.

Collaborating on a new approach to network deployment

One of the most important elements for SUPA Networks working with Telstra Wholesale and InfraCo has been building an understanding and a level of trust between both parties.

“They've actually become part of our team,” Sam says. “They understand our nuances and requirements as a business and they have adapted their systems and processes in order to assist us to deliver a much better, faster and more affordable solution for our communities.”

This team has built a close relationship with SUPA Networks so if any issue arises, it is addressed, methodically and swiftly, to ensure business continuity.

The collaborative approach has also helped SUPA Networks evolve their network.

“When we were starting the process of ordering services, we looked at ordering site by site. Due to the volume of sites in our pipeline, we shifted the focus with our account team to have a future looking outlook on the network,” Sam says. “We strategically mapped SUPA Networks’ and InfraCo’s sites and assets to help not only reduce commercial costs but also build carrier grade redundancy into our network.”

This fundamentally changed SUPA Network’s topography and methodology to embrace Dark Fibre solutions at all SUPA Networks sites.

Reaping the rewards of collaboration

The benefits of this close collaboration are seen in SUPA Networks’ deployment at Midtown Macquarie Park.

“So far, the services have been fantastically received by the residents who have moved in. People are enjoying the seamless, secure and reliable connection in their new apartments.”

And as more people move in through the coming years, Sam says SUPA Networks knows it has the scalable network infrastructure to keep people and services connected.

“The Midtown Macquarie site is now ready for the next 10 years of development and investment.”