Senator Stephen Conroy is reported to launch the first retail service providers that offer high speed broadband and telephone services over a fiber-optic network being developed by NBN Co in Tasmania.

Primus, Internode, and iiNet are revealed to be the first three to join the retail service providers list formed by Senator Conroy this morning after uncovering a Proof-of-Concept Test centre in Tasmania.

"It will provide the platform and capability for the service providers to test and refine innovative new services that will be offered to customers as part of the NBN", Senator Conroy posted.

In addition, it is disclosed that the test centre would extend retail service providers, facilitating access to a live environment to test their services as part of the roll out of the National Broadband Network.

The NBN will be an open access network, however, NBN Tasmania will operate with any and all qualified retail service providers to facilitate access to the network and connected customers.

Conroy reveals his happiness to witness the robust interest extended by the retail service providers in offering services in Tasmania, welcoming their assistance for the National Broadband Network.