Australians would go without food before internet

A new study commissioned by Telstra reveals 20% of Australians would go without food, heating or television before they would give up their internet connections.

The study shows half of Melbournian households have more than four internet-enabled devices, including PCs, smartphones and laptops.

The study found 60% of homes in Victoria breach their monthly download limit, while 88% of younger Australians are more likely to use a laptop compared to just 53% of those aged over 65.

“I think the internet is becoming a fourth utility,” Telstra executive director consumer Rebekah O’Flaherty told News.com.au.

“We are seeing that now. There’s gas, electricity, water and now broadband is really becoming that fourth essential element in the home.”